HS 310250 Sodium nitrate
Quick Answer: Sodium nitrate imported under HS 310250 enters the UK at 6.00% ad valorem, the EU at various rates, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This HS code specifically covers sodium nitrate, a chemical compound primarily used as a fertilizer and in the production of explosives and fireworks. Importers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry, the UK imposes a significant tariff. The EU's tariff structure for this product can vary, necessitating careful review of specific TARIC codes. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the most current rates for each destination market to ensure compliance and optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3102500000 | — | — | — |
| 3102500089 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3102500010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3102500000 | — | — | — |
| 3102500010 | — | — | — |
| 3102500089 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3102500000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 310250 cover?
This subheading covers sodium nitrate, a chemical compound with the formula NaNO₃. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, it falls under Heading 3102, which pertains to mineral or chemical fertilizers, nitrogenous. Official definitions from sources like the US International Trade Commission (USITC) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification is for pure sodium nitrate or mixtures where it is the principal component, primarily intended for agricultural use as a nitrogen fertilizer. It is also known as Chile saltpeter.
What falls outside HS 310250?
The following products are excluded from HS 310250: other inorganic nitrogen compounds not specified, such as ammonium nitrate (HS 310230) or urea (HS 310260). Additionally, sodium nitrate that is not intended for fertilizer use, such as technical grade sodium nitrate used in glass manufacturing or explosives, may be classified under different headings based on its specific use and purity, often falling under Chapter 28 for inorganic chemicals. Mixtures where sodium nitrate is not the predominant component by weight or function are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 310250?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures containing sodium nitrate. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are presented in sets for retail sale or consist of mixed components, classification is determined by the component that gives them their essential character. Importers may incorrectly classify a blended fertilizer product solely based on the presence of sodium nitrate, when another component might dictate a different heading. Furthermore, confusing sodium nitrate with other sodium compounds or nitrogenous fertilizers is a frequent oversight.
How should importers classify products under HS 310250?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 310250 involves a multi-step process. First, identify the precise chemical composition of the imported product. Consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the Explanatory Notes for Chapter 31 and Heading 3102. Verify that the product is indeed sodium nitrate and is intended for use as a fertilizer. If it is a mixture, determine the principal component or the component that confers the essential character.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 310250?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of sodium nitrate fertilizer, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $0.00. This is because the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) lists a 0% ad valorem duty rate for sodium nitrate under HTS code 3102.50.0000. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $5,000 USD = $0.00 USD. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements or specific exemptions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 310250?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 310250, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a "Free" duty rate for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program may offer reduced or "Free" duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim preference under USMCA, a compliant origin declaration is required. For GSP, a Form A certificate of origin is typically mandated.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 310250, sodium nitrate, in major markets like the US and EU?
For HS code 310250 (Sodium nitrate), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is 0.00% ad valorem, meaning no duty is applied. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the applied duty rate for imports from countries without preferential agreements is 6.00% ad valorem. It is crucial for importers to verify specific rates based on the country of origin and any applicable trade agreements, as these can significantly alter the final duty payable.
How is the duty calculated for sodium nitrate (HS 310250) when a duty rate applies, such as the 6.00% in the EU?
When a duty rate applies, such as the 6.00% ad valorem rate in the EU for HS 310250, the duty is calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if 1,000 kilograms of sodium nitrate are imported into the EU with a customs value of €500, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate = €500 × 6.00% = €30. Importers and customs brokers must ensure accurate valuation of goods to correctly determine the duty amount.
What specific classification criteria distinguish sodium nitrate (HS 310250) from other inorganic nitrogen compounds?
HS code 310250 specifically covers 'Sodium nitrate' under Chapter 31 of the Harmonized System, which deals with 'Fertilizers'. The key classification criterion is the chemical composition: the product must be sodium nitrate (NaNO₃). This distinguishes it from other inorganic nitrogen compounds like ammonium nitrate (310230) or urea (310260). Verification often involves reviewing the product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm its chemical identity and purity.
Are there common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for sodium nitrate (HS 310250) into the US or EU?
While the US applies a 0.00% MFN rate for sodium nitrate, making preferential rates less impactful for duty elimination, importers should still investigate. For the EU, preferential rates may be available for sodium nitrate originating from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other preferential schemes. For instance, goods from certain developing countries might benefit from reduced or zero duties under the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP). It is essential to consult the official TARIC database for the EU or the USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule for specific origin-based preferential rates.
What documentation is typically required for customs clearance of sodium nitrate (HS 310250)?
Standard documentation for clearing sodium nitrate (HS 310250) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the intended use (e.g., as fertilizer), additional documents may be necessary. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify chemical composition and purity, and potentially permits or licenses related to the import of chemicals or fertilizers. Importers should consult the customs authorities of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents.