HS 320710 Prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours and similar preparations
Quick Answer: Prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours, and similar preparations imported under HS 320710 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at 3.1% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification covers finely ground materials, often mixed with binders or other substances, designed for imparting colour or opacity to other products, such as paints, inks, plastics, and ceramics. Importers should verify specific product formulations against the descriptive notes within the relevant customs tariff to ensure correct classification. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of understanding these varied duty structures for international trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3207100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3207100000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3207100000 | 3.1% | 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 3207.10?
Imports of Prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours and similar 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 320710 cover?
This subheading covers prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours, and similar preparations, based on inorganic substances, which are used for colouring or imparting opacity. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes, these preparations are typically dispersions of pigments or opacifiers in a liquid medium, or in paste or powder form, specifically formulated for direct use in the manufacture of paints, inks, plastics, or other finished goods. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these are ready-to-use colouring agents, distinct from raw pigments.
What falls outside HS 320710?
The following products are excluded from HS 320710: raw inorganic pigments and opacifiers (classified under HS 2823 to 2825, 3206, etc.), prepared organic pigments (HS 3206), paints, varnishes, and enamels in finished form (HS 3208, 3209, 3210), and printing inks (HS 3215). Preparations containing organic colouring matter, even if used for similar purposes, are generally classified under HS 3206. For instance, a ready-to-use blue pigment paste for plastics, if based on an organic dye, would not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320710?
A common error is misclassifying finished paints or inks under this subheading. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. HS 3207.10 specifically refers to "preparations" for colouring, not the final applied product. Importers may also incorrectly classify raw pigments or unformulated colourants, which are typically classified in earlier headings within Chapter 32, based on their chemical composition or form.
How should importers classify products under HS 320710?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320710 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is a preparation of inorganic pigments or opacifiers, ready for direct application. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific product descriptions and examples is crucial. Obtaining a detailed product specification sheet from the manufacturer, outlining its formulation and intended application, is highly recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320710?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of a prepared inorganic white pigment paste for ceramics, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $350. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.07 = $350). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 320710.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320710?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320710, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, for goods originating in developing countries that benefit from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a GSP Form A may be required to claim preferential duty rates, which can be significantly lower or even free, depending on the specific country and product.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320710 (Prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours and similar preparations)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 320710 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the MFN rate is 3.1%. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, goods originating from countries with specific trade agreements like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free under certain conditions. It is crucial to consult the latest USITC tariff schedule for the specific rate applicable to your country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS code 320710 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 320710 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a set amount per unit). Assuming an ad valorem rate of 3.1% (based on the USHTS MFN rate), if the declared value of a shipment of prepared pigments is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.031 (duty rate) = $310 USD. Always verify the specific duty calculation basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) and the applicable rate for your shipment's origin.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 320710?
HS code 320710 covers 'Prepared pigments, prepared opacifiers, prepared colours and similar preparations'. The key classification criteria revolve around the product being a preparation specifically designed for use as a pigment, opacifier, or colourant. This typically means that the substance is not a simple raw pigment but has been processed or mixed with binders, diluents, or other additives to make it ready for direct application or incorporation into other products. For example, a dry, unmixed titanium dioxide powder would likely be classified elsewhere (e.g., 2823.00), whereas a paste or liquid dispersion of titanium dioxide with added binders for use in paints would fall under 320710. Consult Chapter 32 of the Harmonized System Nomenclature for detailed explanatory notes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 320710?
When importing goods under HS code 320710, standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the specific preparation and its intended use, additional documentation might be necessary. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous materials, or specific product declarations to ensure compliance with national regulations regarding chemical substances or colorants. Importers and customs brokers should always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 320710, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 320710. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for duty-free entry. Similarly, agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA) or Australia can offer reduced or zero duties. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement and possess a valid Certificate of Origin. This requires careful tracking of the supply chain and proper documentation to substantiate the origin claim. Consulting the specific trade agreement text and the relevant customs authority is essential.