HS 285210 Chemically defined
Quick Answer: HS 285210 covers mercury compounds, specifically those that are chemically defined. This means the chemical composition and structure are precisely known, distinguishing them from mixtures or ill-defined substances. Importers and exporters dealing with these compounds will find varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. For instance, the UK and EU generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC, respectively. In the United States, rates can vary significantly, ranging from "Free" to 25% or 3% ad valorem, depending on the specific mercury compound and its classification under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Due to the hazardous nature of mercury, trade in these compounds is often subject to stringent environmental regulations and international conventions, such as the Minamata Convention on Mercury, requiring careful compliance beyond standard customs procedures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2852100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2852100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 285210 | — | — | — |
| 2852101000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 2852109000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2852.10?
Imports of Chemically defined may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 285210 cover?
This subheading covers mercury compounds that are chemically defined, meaning their chemical structure and composition are precisely known and consistent. This includes a wide array of inorganic and organic mercury compounds, provided they meet the criteria of being "chemically defined" as per Chapter 28 Note 1. Examples include mercury(II) chloride (calomel), mercury(II) oxide, mercury(II) sulfide, and various organomercury compounds, provided they are presented in their pure form or as solutions where the mercury compound is the principal constituent. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2852 clarify that this heading encompasses all mercury compounds, regardless of their specific chemical nature, as long as they are chemically defined. Official USITC and EU TARIC definitions align with this interpretation, focusing on the chemical specificity of the compound.
What falls outside HS 285210?
The following products are excluded from HS 285210: mercury alloys (amalgams), which are classified under Chapter 28 Note 1(a) and typically fall under Heading 2843 if they are precious metal alloys, or other headings for base metal alloys. Also excluded are mercury preparations that are not chemically defined compounds, such as mixtures or solutions where the mercury compound is not the sole or principal constituent, or where the chemical identity of the mercury component is not precisely established. For instance, certain dental amalgams, which are mixtures of mercury with other metals, are not classified here. Additionally, waste and scrap containing mercury, even if it originated from chemically defined mercury compounds, is generally classified under Heading 3825 or other waste headings, depending on its composition and nature, rather than as a pure chemical compound.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 285210?
A common error is misclassifying mercury-containing mixtures or preparations as chemically defined compounds under HS 285210. Importers often overlook the "chemically defined" requirement, leading to incorrect classification of products like certain laboratory reagents or industrial catalysts that contain mercury compounds but are not pure, distinct chemical entities. Another frequent mistake involves confusing mercury alloys (amalgams) with mercury compounds; amalgams are specifically excluded by Chapter 28 Note 1(a) and are classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 71 or Chapter 73. Applying General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 is crucial, as it dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Failure to rigorously apply these notes, particularly Chapter 28 Note 1, results in erroneous classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 285210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 285210 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition and purity. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed a "chemically defined" mercury compound, meaning its exact chemical formula and structure are known and consistent, as per Chapter 28 Note 1. This often requires obtaining a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer. Next, verify that the product is not an alloy or a non-chemically defined mixture, which would fall outside this subheading. Consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2852 for specific guidance and examples. Finally, cross-reference with the official USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or EU TARIC database to ensure alignment with national interpretations and to determine the applicable duty rates, such as the 3.5% ad valorem duty rate for certain mercury compounds in the US.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2852.10 ('Chemically defined') in major markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2852.10 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate for MFN imports under HTSUS subheading 2852.10.00. The European Union's TARIC database often shows a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for MFN imports under CN code 2852 10 00. Similarly, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this subheading. However, it is crucial to verify the specific duty rate for the country of importation, as some nations may apply higher rates, such as 3% or even 25% ad valorem, depending on their national tariff schedules and trade policies. Always consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2852.10, particularly concerning the 'chemically defined' aspect?
HS 2852.10 specifically covers 'Chemically defined' compounds of mercury, whether or not mixed with other substances, but excluding amalgams. The term 'chemically defined' is critical here and generally means a pure chemical substance of a known chemical structure and composition. This implies that the substance must be identifiable by a specific chemical formula and possess distinct chemical properties. Mixtures, solutions, or preparations containing mercury compounds are classified here only if the mercury compound itself is chemically defined and predominates, or if the mixture is specifically provided for elsewhere. For classification purposes, refer to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28, which provide detailed guidance on what constitutes a 'chemically defined' compound, often requiring a high degree of purity and a specific stoichiometric composition. Impurities that do not alter the essential character or use of the chemically defined compound are generally tolerated.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 2852.10, and what documentation is typically required to claim them?
Many free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs could offer duty-free or reduced rates for HS 2852.10, provided the goods meet the respective rules of origin. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), various EU FTAs (e.g., with South Korea, Japan), and the UK's network of trade agreements. For instance, under USMCA, qualifying goods originating in Mexico or Canada would typically enter the U.S. duty-free. To claim preferential duty rates, importers generally need to provide a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration, depending on the agreement. This documentation certifies that the goods meet the specific rules of origin criteria outlined in the trade agreement (e.g., wholly obtained, change in tariff classification, regional value content). Importers should consult the specific FTA's legal text and implementing regulations for precise origin requirements and documentation protocols.
Are there any specific import documentation or regulatory requirements, beyond standard customs declarations, for mercury compounds classified under HS 2852.10?
Yes, due to the hazardous nature of mercury and its compounds, there are often specific import documentation and regulatory requirements beyond standard customs declarations. Many countries are signatories to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which aims to reduce mercury pollution. This can lead to national regulations requiring permits, licenses, or specific declarations for the import of mercury compounds. For example, in the United States, imports of certain mercury compounds may be subject to regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or other federal agencies, potentially requiring prior notification or specific import certifications. Importers should verify with the relevant environmental and health authorities in the importing country for any specific permits, licenses, safety data sheets (SDS), or labeling requirements that apply to mercury compounds under HS 2852.10 to ensure full compliance.