HS Code Subheading

Barium carbonate (witherite); natural, whether or not calcined, other than barium oxide of heading no. 2816

2511.20 Subheading
Section V — Mineral products

About HS Code 251120

This category covers natural barium carbonate, known as witherite, which may or may not have undergone calcination. Witherite is a relatively rare mineral compared to barytes. It serves as a primary source for various barium chemicals, including barium oxide, and is used in the production of specialty glass, ceramics, and certain types of glazes. Its natural form, even if calcined, distinguishes it from synthetically produced barium carbonate. Importers are typically countries with advanced chemical industries or specialized manufacturing sectors that require barium compounds. Exporters are limited to countries with known witherite deposits, which are less common globally. Key aspects for trade include its purity, the presence of impurities, and whether it has been calcined, as these factors influence its suitability for specific chemical and industrial applications. Its rarity makes it a niche but important commodity.

Products Under This Code

Witherite ore, Natural barium carbonate lumps, Calcined witherite, Barium carbonate powder (natural), Raw witherite, Milled witherite

Real World Examples

Solvay (produces barium chemicals), Barium & Chemicals Inc. (specialty barium compounds), Noah Chemicals (specialty chemicals), Sigma-Aldrich (laboratory chemicals)

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct from 283660 (barium carbonate, synthetic) and specifically excludes 2816 (barium oxide), which is a processed chemical.

Products Classified Under 2511.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.

Trade Overview

China and the UK have historically been significant sources, with imports primarily by countries with chemical and glass manufacturing industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 251120?

HS code 251120 covers: Barium carbonate (witherite); natural, whether or not calcined, other than barium oxide of heading no. 2816. This category covers natural barium carbonate, known as witherite, which may or may not have undergone calcination. Witherite is a relatively rare mineral compared to barytes. It serves as a primary source for various barium chemicals, including barium oxide, and is used in the production of specialty glass, ceramics, and certain types of glazes. Its natural form, even if calcined, distinguishes it from synthetically produced barium carbonate. Importers are typically countries with advanced chemical industries or specialized manufacturing sectors that require barium compounds. Exporters are limited to countries with known witherite deposits, which are less common globally. Key aspects for trade include its purity, the presence of impurities, and whether it has been calcined, as these factors influence its suitability for specific chemical and industrial applications. Its rarity makes it a niche but important commodity.

What products fall under HS code 251120?

Witherite ore, Natural barium carbonate lumps, Calcined witherite, Barium carbonate powder (natural), Raw witherite, Milled witherite

What are common misclassifications for HS code 251120?

This code is distinct from 283660 (barium carbonate, synthetic) and specifically excludes 2816 (barium oxide), which is a processed chemical.

How is HS code 251120 structured?

HS code 251120 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (11) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.