HS 790310 Zinc dust

Quick Answer: Zinc dust imported under HS 790310 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.50% ad valorem, and the US at 0.7¢/kg (MFN). This classification covers finely powdered metallic zinc, typically produced by atomization or mechanical grinding. It is primarily used in paints, coatings, and chemical processes. Importers should note the specific unit-based duty in the US, which can fluctuate with zinc prices. According to CustomTariffs data, preferential rates may apply in the US for certain trading partners. Exporters and customs brokers must ensure accurate product descriptions and compliance with all jurisdictional requirements.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7903100000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7903100000 2.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7903100000 0.7¢/kg 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 7903.10?

Imports of Zinc dust 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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 790310 cover?

This subheading covers zinc dust, which is defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature as zinc powder of a fineness of 90% or more by weight, passing through a sieve with 63 micrometres (mesh) per linear centimetre. According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification specifically applies to finely divided zinc particles, often used in paints, coatings, and chemical processes, distinguishing it from coarser zinc powders or flakes.

What falls outside HS 790310?

The following products are excluded from HS 790310: zinc in other forms such as ingots, bars, rods, and profiles (HS 7901), zinc waste and scrap (HS 7902), and articles of zinc (Chapter 79, other headings). For instance, zinc oxide (HS 281700), zinc chloride (HS 282739), and zinc plating on other articles are classified under their respective chemical or base metal article headings, not as zinc dust.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 790310?

A common error is misclassifying zinc powder that does not meet the specified fineness criteria of 90% passing through a 63-micrometre sieve. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify zinc alloys in powder form under this heading if they do not meet the specific definition of zinc dust as pure zinc.

How should importers classify products under HS 790310?

The correct procedure for classifying zinc dust involves verifying the product's physical characteristics and composition against the WCO definition and relevant national tariff notes. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or technical data sheet confirming the particle size distribution (e.g., percentage passing a 63-micrometre sieve) and the zinc content, typically 90% or more, to ensure accurate classification under HS 790310.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 790310?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of zinc dust, declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 5.0% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS 790310 (5.0% × $3,000 USD = $150.00).

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 790310?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 790310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For goods originating from developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A may be necessary to achieve a reduced or duty-free rate.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 790120 HS 790111 HS 760310 HS 790112 HS 790390 HS 690310

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 790310 (Zinc dust)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 790310 (Zinc dust) in the United States is 0.00%. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from countries with trade agreements. For example, imports from Australia (AU) may be Free, while other countries might have specific rates such as 2.50% ad valorem or a specific rate like 0.7¢/kg. It is crucial to consult the latest USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your country of origin.

How is the import duty for Zinc dust (HS 790310) calculated, and can you provide an example?

The calculation of import duty for Zinc dust (HS 790310) depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a set amount per unit of weight). For instance, if a country has a specific duty rate of 0.7¢/kg and you import 10,000 kg of zinc dust valued at $20,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: 10,000 kg * 0.7¢/kg = 7,000¢. Converting cents to dollars (7,000¢ / 100¢/$) gives a duty of $70.00 USD. If the rate were 2.50% ad valorem on the same $20,000 USD shipment, the duty would be $20,000 * 0.025 = $500.00 USD. Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and the rate for your specific import.

What are the key classification criteria for Zinc dust under HS code 790310?

HS code 790310 specifically covers 'Zinc dust and powders'. The primary classification criterion is the physical form of the zinc. 'Dust' and 'powders' generally refer to finely divided particles of zinc. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide guidance, emphasizing that the material must be in a particulate form. Factors such as particle size distribution and the manufacturing process (e.g., atomization, grinding) are considered to ensure it meets the definition of dust or powder, distinguishing it from other forms of zinc like ingots or bars (covered in other headings).

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Zinc dust (HS 790310) into the United States?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for Zinc dust (HS 790310) into the United States. Based on the sample rates provided, countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others listed with 'Free' status likely benefit from agreements such as the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, US-Korea Free Trade Agreement, and the US-Chile Free Trade Agreement. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in these agreements and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim preferential treatment.

What documentation is typically required when importing Zinc dust (HS 790310) into the US?

Standard documentation for importing Zinc dust (HS 790310) into the United States includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be required to substantiate eligibility under a Free Trade Agreement. Additionally, importers should be aware of any specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements or agency regulations that might apply to zinc products, though typically zinc dust itself does not fall under highly regulated categories unless specific hazardous properties are present or it's intended for a regulated use.