HS 810610 Containing more than 99,99 % of bismuth, by weight
Quick Answer: Bismuth containing more than 99.99% of bismuth, by weight, enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.00% ad valorem, and the US at 7.5% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers highly purified bismuth metal in its raw or primary forms, such as ingots, powders, or unwrought shapes. Importers should note potential variations in duty rates based on the specific jurisdiction and the origin of the goods. According to CustomTariffs data, while the UK offers duty-free entry, other major markets like the EU and US impose tariffs, necessitating careful planning for cost-effective import operations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8106109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8106100000 | — | — | — |
| 8106101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8106100000 | — | — | — |
| 8106109000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 8106101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8106100000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 810610 cover?
This subheading covers bismuth in its unwrought or powder form, provided it contains more than 99.99% of bismuth by weight. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 8106 encompasses bismuth and articles thereof, including waste and scrap. Subheading 8106.10 specifically isolates high-purity bismuth, distinguishing it from less pure forms or alloys, as defined by the US International Trade Commission's Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database.
What falls outside HS 810610?
The following products are excluded from HS 810610: bismuth alloys, bismuth compounds (such as bismuth subsalicylate or bismuth oxide), bismuth in semi-manufactured or finished forms (like bars, rods, or plates), and bismuth waste and scrap. For instance, a bismuth-lead alloy used in solders would be classified under a different subheading within Heading 8106 or potentially under Heading 7801 if lead is the predominant metal, and bismuth subsalicylate, a pharmaceutical ingredient, would fall under Chapter 29 or 30.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 810610?
A common error is misinterpreting the purity threshold. Importers may incorrectly classify bismuth alloys or compounds as pure bismuth under 810610 if they do not strictly adhere to the "more than 99.99% by weight" requirement. This is a critical distinction governed by General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System, which emphasizes the Section and Chapter Notes and the wording of the headings and subheadings for primary classification. Failure to verify the exact bismuth content can lead to misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 810610?
The correct procedure for classifying bismuth products under HS 810610 involves obtaining a detailed chemical analysis certificate from the supplier. This certificate must explicitly state the percentage of bismuth by weight, confirming it exceeds 99.99%. Importers and customs brokers should then consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to verify that no other heading or subheading more specifically describes the product, especially concerning its form (unwrought or powder).
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 810610?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of pure bismuth powder, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.035 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 8106.10.10.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 810610?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 810610, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, goods from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive preferential duty rates, potentially Free. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 810610 (bismuth containing more than 99.99% of bismuth)?
Import duty rates for HS code 810610 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. The European Union's TARIC system often shows a 0.00% duty rate for unwrought bismuth of this purity. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate. However, specific preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other trade programs may apply, potentially leading to different outcomes. Always verify the applicable duty rate for your specific import destination and origin.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 810610?
The primary classification criterion for HS code 810610 is the chemical composition of the bismuth. Specifically, the material must contain more than 99.99% of bismuth by weight. This high purity level distinguishes it from other bismuth preparations or alloys. Importers must ensure their documentation, such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), clearly states this purity percentage to support the classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 810610?
To ensure smooth customs clearance for HS code 810610, importers and customs brokers should be prepared with the following documentation: a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, value, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and crucially, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or similar laboratory report verifying that the bismuth content exceeds 99.99% by weight. Depending on the importing country, additional import licenses or declarations might be necessary.
How is the import duty for HS code 810610 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 810610 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the duty rate were 2.00% ad valorem and you imported 100 kilograms of bismuth valued at $5,000 USD, the calculation would be: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example, Duty = $5,000 USD × 2.00% = $100 USD. If the duty rate were 0.00%, the duty amount would be $0 USD.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU FTAs, affect the duty rates for HS code 810610?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 810610. For example, if the bismuth originates from a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., a USMCA country importing into the US, or an EU FTA partner importing into the EU), it may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00%, provided all rules of origin are met. Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter and ensure compliance with the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.