HS 690220 Containing, by weight, more than 50 % of alumina (Al2O3), of silica (SiO2) or of a mixture or compound of these products
Quick Answer: Refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar refractory ceramic goods, containing, by weight, more than 50% of alumina (Al2O3), of silica (SiO2) or of a mixture or compound of these products, imported under HS 690220 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 30% ad valorem. This classification applies to specialized ceramic products designed to withstand high temperatures, commonly used in furnaces, kilns, and other industrial heating applications. Importers should consult specific tariff lines within each jurisdiction, as the US, in particular, has varied rates based on product composition and intended use. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise product description for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902209900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6902200000 | — | — | — |
| 6902201000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6902209100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902201000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 6902209900 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 6902200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 6902209100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 69022010 | Free | — | — |
| 6902201010 | — | — | ["thousands","t"] |
| 6902201020 | — | — | ["thousands","t"] |
| 69022050 | Free | — | — |
| 690220 | — | — | — |
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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 690220 cover?
This subheading covers refractory bricks, blocks, tiles, and similar refractory ceramic construction materials, specifically those containing, by weight, more than 50% of alumina (Al2O3), silica (SiO2), or a mixture or compound of these products. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is defined by its chemical composition, ensuring that materials primarily composed of aluminum oxide or silicon dioxide, or their combined forms, fall under this classification. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, align with this definition, specifying that such refractory ceramic articles are classified here if their alumina and/or silica content exceeds the 50% threshold.
What falls outside HS 690220?
The following products are excluded from HS 690220: refractory ceramic articles not meeting the minimum 50% alumina or silica content, as well as those containing significant proportions of other refractory materials like magnesia or chrome. For instance, basic refractory bricks predominantly composed of magnesium oxide (MgO) would be classified under HS 690290. Similarly, refractory ceramic articles that are not specifically construction materials, such as certain industrial furnace linings or specialized ceramic components, may fall under different headings within Chapter 69 or other chapters of the HS, depending on their specific form and function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690220?
A common error is misinterpreting the "more than 50%" threshold for alumina and silica content. Importers may incorrectly classify products with a combined alumina and silica content just below this threshold, or fail to account for other significant components that dilute the percentage. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Accurate chemical analysis is crucial; if a product contains less than 50% alumina and silica, it should not be classified under 690220, even if it is a refractory ceramic construction material.
How should importers classify products under HS 690220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690220 involves a two-step process: first, determining if the product is a refractory ceramic construction material, and second, verifying its chemical composition. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a detailed chemical analysis certificate from the manufacturer, specifically stating the weight percentage of alumina (Al2O3) and silica (SiO2). If these combined percentages exceed 50%, and the product is indeed a refractory brick, block, tile, or similar article for construction, then HS 690220 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690220?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of high-alumina refractory bricks, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $375. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 15% of $2,500 USD = $375 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) under subheading 690220.0000 for imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690220. For imports from Canada and Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the duty rate is Free, provided the goods meet the rules of origin and a self-certified origin statement is provided. Similarly, under the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may benefit from reduced or Free duty rates, often requiring a EUR.1 movement certificate or a self-certified origin declaration depending on the specific agreement and origin country. For instance, imports from South Korea under the Korea-United States Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) are also Free, contingent on origin verification.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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 690220 (refractory bricks containing >50% alumina or silica)?
Import duty rates for HS code 690220 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may have a 0.00% duty rate. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. Sources include the USITC HTS, the EU TARIC database, and the UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 690220?
The primary classification criterion for HS code 690220 is the chemical composition of the refractory brick. Specifically, the product must contain, by weight, more than 50% of alumina (Al2O3), silica (SiO2), or a mixture or compound of these two substances. This classification applies to bricks and similar refractory constructional materials. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on the definition and application of 'refractory'.
How is the import duty for HS code 690220 calculated, using an example?
The duty for HS code 690220 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of refractory bricks classified under 690220 has a declared customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.00% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.02 (duty rate) = $200.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, so it's crucial to check the specific tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 690220?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 690220, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or a chemical analysis certificate to substantiate the alumina or silica content if requested by customs authorities to verify compliance with the >50% threshold.
Which trade agreements commonly offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS code 690220?
Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 690220. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods of North American origin often benefit from duty-free treatment (0.00%). Similarly, agreements like the EU's Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, or the EU's Free Trade Agreements with various partners, may provide preferential access. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements for the specific trade agreement to claim these benefits. Consulting the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs authority is essential.