HS 381512 With precious metal or precious-metal compounds as the active substance

Quick Answer: Preparations for the manufacture of catalysts, with precious metal or precious-metal compounds as the active substance, enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 25% (MFN). This classification specifically applies to catalyst preparations where the active component is derived from precious metals like platinum, palladium, or gold, or their chemical compounds. These are typically used in chemical processes to accelerate reactions. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates across different trading blocs, as highlighted by CustomTariffs data. Careful documentation confirming the precious metal content is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
3815120000 6.00 % — —
3815120090 6.00 % — —
3815120010 6.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
3815120000 6.50 % — —
3815120010 6.50 % — —
3815120090 6.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
3815120010 — — ["kg"]
38151200 Free — —
3815120090 — — ["kg"]

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 to Classify This HS Code?

```html

What products does HS 381512 cover?

This subheading covers catalysts, in which precious metal or precious-metal compounds are the active substance, specifically for use in chemical processes. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes catalysts such as platinum, palladium, or rhodium on a support, used in applications like the hydrogenation of organic compounds or the oxidation of hydrocarbons. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing the catalytic function and the presence of precious metals as the key defining characteristic.

What falls outside HS 381512?

The following products are excluded from HS 381512: catalysts where the active substance is not a precious metal or precious-metal compound, such as those based on nickel or iron oxides, which would be classified under HS 381511. Also excluded are precious metals or precious-metal compounds when presented separately and not incorporated into a catalyst. For instance, platinum powder for laboratory use or gold compounds not intended for catalytic purposes would fall under different headings, such as Chapter 71 for precious metals.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 381512?

A common error is misclassifying catalysts that contain precious metals but where these metals are not the *active* substance, or where the precious metal is present in a very low, non-functional concentration. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 and GIR 3(b) are crucial here; the classification should be determined by the essential character of the product. For example, a catalyst where a non-precious metal is the primary active component, even if it contains trace amounts of platinum for a secondary function, might be incorrectly classified under 381512 instead of a subheading for non-precious metal catalysts.

How should importers classify products under HS 381512?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 381512 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the active catalytic substance is indeed a precious metal or precious-metal compound, such as platinum, palladium, rhodium, gold, or silver, and that it is functioning as the primary catalyst. Reviewing the manufacturer's technical data sheets, safety data sheets (SDS), and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC are essential steps.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 381512?

A batch of 5 kilograms of Palladium on Carbon catalyst (5% Pd), declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 3815.12.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 381512?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 381512, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of "Free" for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially "Free," for originating goods from countries like Japan and Singapore. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a specific origin declaration as stipulated by the respective agreement's rules of origin.

```

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 381511 HS 711510 HS 381210 HS 821510 HS 681512 HS 281512

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 381512, 'Prepared binders for ceramic wares; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of natural products), not elsewhere specified or included', specifically those with precious metal or precious-metal compounds as the active substance?

The import duty rates for HS code 381512, specifically for preparations with precious metal or precious-metal compounds as the active substance, can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is often around 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under trade agreements, such as those with Canada or Mexico (USMCA), may offer reduced or zero duties. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC's HTS, the EU's TARIC database, or the UK's Trade Tariff, for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your specific import.

What are the key classification criteria for HS code 381512, particularly when precious metals are involved?

The primary classification criterion for HS code 381512 is that the product must be a 'prepared binder for ceramic wares' or a 'chemical product and preparation of the chemical or allied industries, not elsewhere specified or included.' For the subheadings that specify 'with precious metal or precious-metal compounds as the active substance,' the critical factor is the presence and function of these precious metals (e.g., platinum, gold, silver, palladium) or their compounds as the active component driving the preparation's intended use. This distinguishes it from preparations where precious metals might be present incidentally or as a catalyst in a non-primary role. The WCO's Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings can provide further guidance on determining the 'active substance' status.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 381512, especially when precious metals are involved?

For imports under HS code 381512 involving precious metals, standard import documentation will be required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Additionally, importers may need to provide a detailed technical data sheet or certificate of analysis that clearly specifies the composition of the preparation, explicitly identifying the precious metal or precious-metal compound as the active substance. Depending on the country of import and the specific nature of the precious metal, additional declarations regarding origin, value, and potentially permits or licenses related to the trade of precious materials might be necessary. Consulting with a customs broker is advisable to ensure all specific requirements are met.

How is the import duty calculated for HS code 381512 when the duty is based on an ad valorem rate, using a hypothetical example?

Import duties for HS code 381512 are typically calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of a prepared binder containing precious metal compounds has a declared customs value of $50,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem, the duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty Amount = $50,000 USD × 0.06 = $3,000 USD. This $3,000 USD would be the import duty payable. It's important to note that some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit) or a combination, and the customs value is determined according to WTO valuation rules.

Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 381512, and how can importers verify these rates?

Major trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 381512. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer preferential rates for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries can also provide reduced or zero duties for goods entering the EU. To verify preferential rates, importers must first confirm that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. They then need to consult the preferential tariff schedules available through official government trade portals (e.g., the EU's TARIC, UK's Trade Tariff, or the USITC's HTS) and ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration on the invoice, as required by the importing country.