HS 382482 Containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs) or polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs)

The duty rates for HS code 3824.82 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For instance, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 6.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For example, under the USHTS, goods from certain countries may enter duty-free (e.g., Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX) under USMCA, Chile (CL), etc., as indicated by codes like 'A', 'AU', 'CL', 'CO', 'D', 'E', 'IL', 'JO', 'K', 'KR', 'MA', 'OM', 'P', 'PA', 'PE', 'S', 'SG'). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates. The WCO's Harmonized System Nomenclature provides the global framework, but national tariff schedules dictate the specific rates.

The duty for HS code 3824.82 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of a chemical mixture containing PCBs valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the United States and is subject to the MFN duty rate of 6.5%, the import duty would be calculated as follows: $10,000 (value) × 0.065 (duty rate) = $650.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, which would be detailed in their respective tariff schedules. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the importing country's customs authority.

The primary classification criterion for HS code 3824.82 is the presence of specific hazardous substances within the product. The goods must contain Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs), or Polychlorinated biphenyls (PBBs). These are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and their presence, even in small quantities, dictates classification under this heading, which is specifically for 'prepared binders for foundry moulds; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries... not elsewhere specified or included: Other preparations containing: ... PCBs, PCTs or PBBs'. Importers must be able to demonstrate the composition of the product, often through Certificates of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS), to confirm the presence of these substances and ensure correct classification. This heading is a residual category for chemical preparations not classified elsewhere but containing these specific regulated substances.

Importing goods under HS code 3824.82 often requires specific documentation due to the hazardous nature of PCBs, PCTs, and PBBs. Beyond standard import documents like commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading, importers may need to provide: 1. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) detailing the chemical composition and confirming the presence and concentration of PCBs, PCTs, or PBBs. 2. Import permits or licenses issued by the relevant environmental or chemical regulatory agencies in the importing country, as these substances are often subject to strict import controls under international agreements like the Stockholm Convention. 3. Declarations confirming compliance with national regulations regarding the handling, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials. Customs brokers should verify the specific requirements with the importing country's customs authority and environmental protection agencies.

The import of products containing PCBs, PCTs, or PBBs, classified under HS code 3824.82, is heavily influenced by international environmental agreements due to their classification as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The most significant is the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. This convention aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of POPs. Many countries implement its provisions through national legislation, which can affect import eligibility, require specific permits, or impose outright bans. While not directly setting duty rates, these conventions necessitate strict compliance and documentation, which indirectly impacts trade facilitation. Additionally, regional trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, EU Single Market regulations) may have provisions related to the import of hazardous chemicals, potentially affecting preferential duty rates or requiring specific compliance measures beyond the scope of the Stockholm Convention.