HS 690290 Other
Quick Answer: Refractory bricks, blocks, tiles, and similar refractory ceramic construction materials, not elsewhere specified under HS 6902, imported under HS 690290 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from Free to 25% ad valorem depending on specific product characteristics. This residual category captures refractory ceramic goods that do not fit into the more specific subheadings of heading 6902. Importers should carefully review the specific tariff lines within each jurisdiction to determine the precise duty applicable, as the "Other" designation can lead to varied classifications. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902900000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902901010 | — | — | ["thousands","t"] |
| 6902901020 | — | — | ["thousands","t"] |
| 69029010 | Free | — | — |
| 6902905010 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 6902905020 | — | — | ["t"] |
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 690290 cover?
This subheading covers refractory bricks, blocks, tiles, and similar refractory ceramic construction materials, not elsewhere specified or included within heading 6902. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses a range of ceramic products designed to withstand high temperatures, used in furnaces, kilns, and other high-heat industrial applications, provided they do not fit the more specific descriptions of other subheadings under 6902. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this residual nature, focusing on their refractory properties and ceramic composition.
What falls outside HS 690290?
The following products are excluded from HS 690290: refractory ceramic goods specifically described in other subheadings of heading 6902, such as those for furnaces, kilns, retorts, crucibles, etc., or those with a silica content exceeding 93% by weight (classified under 690210). Also excluded are non-refractory ceramic building materials like ordinary bricks (6904), tiles (6907), or stoneware (6905), as their primary function is not high-temperature resistance. For instance, standard ceramic floor tiles are not classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690290?
A common error is misclassifying ordinary ceramic construction materials as refractory products under HS 690290. This often occurs when the material's high-temperature resistance is not its primary characteristic or when it fails to meet the specific technical requirements for refractory goods. For example, decorative ceramic tiles intended for general building use, even if somewhat heat-resistant, would not fall under this subheading. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which prioritizes the Section and Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 690290?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690290 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition, intended use, and performance characteristics, particularly its ability to withstand high temperatures. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO HS Nomenclature, the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff), and any relevant Explanatory Notes. If the product is not specifically described in other subheadings of 6902 and possesses refractory properties, it is likely classifiable here.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690290?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of basic refractory bricks for industrial kilns, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $187.50 USD. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem applied to the declared value ($2,500 USD × 0.075 = $187.50 USD). This calculation assumes no other specific duty rates or preferential agreements apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690290?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690290, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating from developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the US may offer reduced or Free duty rates. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical duty rates for HS code 690290, 'Other refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar ceramic refractory constructional goods', in major markets like the US, EU, and UK?
Duty rates for HS code 690290 can vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is often 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 2.00% ad valorem for most origins, though preferential rates may apply. The UK Trade Tariff typically lists a rate of 2.5% ad valorem for goods from most non-EU countries. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change and be influenced by trade agreements.
How is the duty for HS code 690290 calculated if it has an ad valorem rate? Can you provide an example?
Ad valorem duties are calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of 'other' refractory constructional goods under HS 690290 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem (e.g., US MFN rate), the duty payable would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. It's important to note that some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, depending on the product and the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 690290, 'Other refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar ceramic refractory constructional goods'?
HS code 690290 is a residual category for refractory ceramic constructional goods not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 69. To be classified here, the goods must be made of ceramic materials, possess refractory properties (meaning they can withstand high temperatures without significant degradation), and be in the form of bricks, blocks, tiles, or similar constructional articles. Examples include specialized ceramic shapes used in furnaces, kilns, incinerators, or other high-temperature industrial applications that do not fit into more specific subheadings like those for silica, alumina, or magnesia refractories.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 690290?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 690290. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the refractory goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Some countries might also require safety data sheets (SDS) or certificates of conformity to ensure compliance with local regulations, although this is less common for basic refractory materials unless they contain hazardous components.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 690290?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duty rates for goods classified under HS code 690290 if the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the agreement. For example, if refractory constructional goods originating from a country that is part of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., Canada or Mexico for the USMCA, or an EU member state for EU FTAs) and meet the relevant origin criteria, they may be eligible for a preferential duty rate, often 0% ad valorem. Importers and customs brokers must obtain and verify a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim these preferential rates.