HS 790120 Zinc alloys
Quick Answer: Unwrought zinc alloys imported under HS 790120 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.50%, and the US at 3% (MFN), with preferential rates available from several trade partners. This HS code specifically covers zinc alloys that have not been further worked beyond their initial casting or forming into basic shapes. Importers should be aware of the varying duty rates across major markets, as detailed by CustomTariffs. For the US, specific free trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties. Customs brokers should verify the origin of goods to ensure eligibility for preferential treatment where applicable.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7901200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7901200000 | 2.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7901200000 | 3% | 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 7901.20?
Imports of Zinc alloys 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 790120 cover?
This subheading covers zinc alloys, which are mixtures of zinc with other elements to improve its properties, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database, this category includes unwrought zinc alloys, typically in the form of ingots, blocks, or granules, specifically formulated for industrial applications and not yet further manufactured into finished goods. These alloys are distinct from pure zinc classified under HS 7901.12.
What falls outside HS 790120?
The following products are excluded from HS 790120: pure unwrought zinc (classified under HS 7901.12), zinc powders and flakes (HS 7903), zinc waste and scrap (HS 7902), and articles of zinc, such as plates, sheets, strip, wire, tubes, pipes, castings, and forgings (classified in HS Chapter 79, but in later headings). For instance, zinc-plated steel articles are classified based on the base metal, not as zinc articles, and zinc oxide or other zinc compounds are classified in Chapter 28.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 790120?
A common error is misclassifying zinc alloys based solely on their primary component without considering their specific composition and form. For example, if a product is primarily zinc but contains significant alloying elements that alter its fundamental characteristics, it should be classified as an alloy. Furthermore, confusion can arise with finished or semi-finished zinc articles, which are excluded from this unwrought category. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 790120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 790120 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must consult the product's technical specifications, including its chemical analysis to confirm it is an alloy and not pure zinc. Verification against the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is essential to ensure accurate classification. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from the customs authority is recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 790120?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of Zamak 3 zinc alloy ingots, declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,250 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($25,000 USD × 0.05 = $1,250 USD). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 7901.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 790120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 790120, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible zinc alloys originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible zinc alloys from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A. Documentation requirements vary by agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 790120 (Zinc alloys)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for unwrought zinc alloys (HS 790120) can vary. For instance, the United States applies a 0.00% MFN duty rate. However, other countries may have different rates, such as 2.50% or 3%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive MFN rate. For example, under the EU TARIC system, unwrought zinc alloys may be subject to a 0.00% duty rate, while the UK Trade Tariff might list a 0.00% duty for certain origins. Always verify the applicable rate for your specific import.
How are preferential duty rates applied to HS 790120 (Zinc alloys) under trade agreements?
Preferential duty rates for HS 790120 are available to countries that are signatories to specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the importing country. For example, the United States offers duty-free entry (0.00%) for unwrought zinc alloys from countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) under various FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK have agreements that can reduce or eliminate duties for goods originating from partner countries. To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin or other required documentation demonstrating that the zinc alloy meets the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement.
What are the classification criteria for unwrought zinc alloys under HS code 790120?
HS code 790120 specifically covers 'Unwrought zinc alloys'. This means the zinc must be in its primary, unworked form, such as ingots, pigs, or blocks, and must be an alloy. An alloy is a metallic substance composed of two or more elements, where at least one is a metal. For zinc alloys, the primary metal is zinc, with other elements added to improve its properties (e.g., aluminum, magnesium, copper). The material must not have undergone further manufacturing processes beyond basic smelting and casting into these unwrought forms. If the zinc alloy has been further worked (e.g., rolled, extruded, or shaped), it would be classified under a different HS heading.
How is the import duty for HS 790120 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 790120 is typically calculated based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). Let's assume an importing country has a 2.50% ad valorem duty rate for unwrought zinc alloys and the customs value of the imported zinc alloy is $10,000. The duty calculation would be: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty = $10,000 × 2.50% = $10,000 × 0.025 = $250. Therefore, the import duty would be $250. Always confirm whether the duty is ad valorem, specific, or a combination, and use the correct customs valuation method.
What documentation is typically required for importing unwrought zinc alloys (HS 790120)?
Standard documentation for importing unwrought zinc alloys (HS 790120) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, an import declaration form is required by customs authorities. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a Certificate of Origin or proof of origin acceptable to the importing country's customs is mandatory. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the zinc alloy, additional documents such as a certificate of analysis or material safety data sheet (MSDS) might be requested to verify the composition and compliance with import regulations.