HS 320641 Other colouring matter and other preparations
Quick Answer: Other colouring matter and preparations imported under HS 320641 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 1.5% (MFN). This classification encompasses a broad range of inorganic and organic pigments and preparations not specifically covered elsewhere in Chapter 32, often used for coloring plastics, paints, inks, and textiles. Importers should note that the US offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners, as detailed by USITC. This code requires careful consideration of the specific composition and intended use of the coloring matter to ensure accurate classification. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206410000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206410090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206410010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206410090 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206410000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206410010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206410000 | 1.5% | 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 3206.41?
Imports of Other colouring matter and other preparations 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 320641 cover?
This subheading covers "Other colouring matter and other preparations" not elsewhere specified within Heading 3206. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes pigments and preparations based on inorganic substances, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and iron oxides, when they are not specifically classified under more precise subheadings. For instance, preparations of pigments on plastics or rubber, or pigments dispersed in a non-aqueous medium, may fall here if they do not meet the criteria for other headings, as detailed in the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System.
What falls outside HS 320641?
The following products are excluded from HS 320641: pigments and preparations based on titanium dioxide of subheading 3206.10, pigments and preparations based on chromium oxides or hydroxides of subheading 3206.20, and pigments and preparations based on iron oxides of subheading 3206.49. Also excluded are inorganic products of a kind used as luminophores of subheading 3206.50. For example, pure titanium dioxide pigments (3206.10) or pigments specifically designed for use in inks (which may fall under Chapter 3204) are not classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320641?
A common error is misclassifying preparations containing multiple colouring matters or other substances where a more specific heading or subheading exists. For example, if a preparation contains a significant amount of titanium dioxide and is primarily intended as a white pigment, it should be classified under 3206.10. General Interpretative Rule 3(b) for the classification of goods in the Nomenclature, which states that mixtures shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character, is often overlooked.
How should importers classify products under HS 320641?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320641 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use, referencing the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and specific national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the product fits into a more specific subheading within Heading 3206 or elsewhere in Chapter 32. If it is a colouring matter or preparation not otherwise specified, and it is based on inorganic substances, then 320641 is the appropriate code.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320641?
A shipment of "Other colouring matter and other preparations" (e.g., a pigment preparation based on iron oxide not elsewhere specified) weighing 1,000 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the customs value: 3.5% of $5,000 USD = $175.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320641?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320641, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for originating goods. The UK's Free Trade Agreement with the EU can also offer preferential rates, potentially leading to duty-free status for qualifying goods. Originating goods from countries benefiting from the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive reduced or duty-free treatment. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320641, 'Other colouring matter and other preparations'?
Import duty rates for HS code 320641 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The European Union, under the TARIC system, may have different rates based on the specific preparation and origin, often ranging from 1.5% to 6.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, with some potentially being free for goods originating from certain trade partners. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the exact rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for HS code 320641 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 320641 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the applicable duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem and the declared customs value of a shipment of 'other colouring matter' is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.065 (Duty Rate) = $650 USD. Some countries may also have specific duties based on weight or volume for certain preparations within this code, so verifying the calculation method is essential.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 320641?
HS code 320641 covers 'Other colouring matter and other preparations' not elsewhere specified or included in other headings of Chapter 32. This generally includes inorganic or organic pigments and preparations based on these pigments, which are not specifically classified under codes like 3206.10 (titanium dioxide and preparations thereof), 3206.20 (pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds), 3206.30 (pigments and preparations based on lead compounds), or 3206.49 (other colouring matter and preparations, not elsewhere specified). The key is that the product must function as a colorant and not be more specifically defined by another HS code. Consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 320641?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 320641. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries such as Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), which may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying goods. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its numerous Association Agreements also provide preferential treatment for goods from partner countries. To claim preferential rates, importers must typically provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the specific trade agreement.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 320641?
Standard import documentation for HS code 320641 includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the 'colouring matter or preparation,' additional documents may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, safety data sheets (SDS) if the product is considered hazardous, or specific import permits or licenses issued by relevant government agencies (e.g., environmental or health authorities). Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.