HS 320620 Pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds
Quick Answer: Pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds imported under HS 320620 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 3.7% under the MFN rate, with some exceptions. This classification covers inorganic pigments and preparations where chromium compounds are the principal coloring agents. These can include various shades of yellow, green, and orange, often used in paints, inks, plastics, and ceramics. Importers should be aware of potential anti-dumping duties or specific import restrictions that may apply in certain jurisdictions, which can be verified through detailed tariff databases. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206200010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206200030 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206200050 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206200070 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206200050 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206200060 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206200000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206200010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206200020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32062000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 3206200020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3206200050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3206200010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3206200030 | — | — | ["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 3206.20?
Imports of Pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 320620 cover?
This subheading covers pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes inorganic pigments where chromium is the principal coloring agent, such as chrome yellow (lead chromate) and chrome green (chromium oxide). Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database specify that these preparations are typically supplied in powder form or as dispersions in a non-aqueous medium and are intended for use as colorants in various industrial applications, including paints, plastics, and ceramics.
What falls outside HS 320620?
The following products are excluded from HS 320620: pigments and preparations based on other metallic compounds, such as those based on iron oxides (classified under 3206.4), titanium dioxide (classified under 3206.10), or cadmium compounds. Also excluded are finished products containing chromium pigments, such as paints or inks (classified in their respective headings, e.g., 3208 for paints), and chromium compounds used for purposes other than pigmentation, such as tanning agents or electroplating chemicals, which fall under different HS chapters.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320620?
A common error is misclassifying preparations containing chromium compounds alongside other coloring agents or binders. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product is a preparation, its classification depends on the principal constituent or its intended use. For instance, a paint containing chromium yellow pigment would be classified as a paint (e.g., 3208.20) rather than the pigment itself, as the paint is the finished article.
How should importers classify products under HS 320620?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320620 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They should verify that the product's primary coloring agent is a chromium compound and that it is presented as a pigment or preparation for coloring, not as a finished good like a paint or plastic article.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320620?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of chrome yellow pigment, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $350.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.07 = $350.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 3206.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320620?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320620. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. Similarly, originating goods from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive preferential treatment. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320620, "Pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds"?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 320620 can vary. For instance, the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a rate of 6.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For example, imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), or South Korea (KR) may benefit from rates as low as Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment.
How is the import duty for HS code 320620 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 320620 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem and you import 1,000 kilograms of a chromium-based pigment valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $5,000 (value) × 0.065 (duty rate) = $325 USD. If there were also a specific duty component (e.g., per kilogram), that would be added to the ad valorem duty.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 320620?
HS code 320620 covers pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds. The primary classification criterion is the presence of chromium compounds as the coloring agent. This includes substances like chromium oxides (e.g., chrome green), lead chromates, and zinc chromates, when presented as pigments or in a form ready for use as pigments. Preparations that contain these chromium compounds and are intended for use as colorants, even if mixed with other substances, also fall under this heading. Exclusions might apply if the chromium compound is present for a different function (e.g., as a catalyst).
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 320620, and what documentation is needed?
Trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), agreements with South Korea (KR), and others listed with 'Free' rates (e.g., AU, BH, CL, CO, IL, JO, MA, OM, PA, PE, SG) can provide preferential duty rates. To claim these benefits, importers typically need a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin from the exporter, compliant with the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement. The COO must certify that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing pigments based on chromium compounds (HS 320620)?
Beyond standard import documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importers of pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds (HS 320620) may need to provide additional documentation depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the product. This could include a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the chemical composition and potential hazards, and potentially a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify that the product meets specified quality standards and is indeed a pigment preparation based on chromium compounds. Some jurisdictions may also require specific import permits or declarations related to chemical substances.