HS Code 25.15 – Marble, travertine, ecaussine and other calcareous stone; of an apparent specific gravity of less than 2.5, alabaster, whether cut by sawing etc, into blocks, slabs of a rectangular (square) shape

HS code 2515 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Marble, travertine, ecaussine and other calcareous stone; of an apparent specific gravity of less than 2.5, alabaster, whether cut by sawing etc, into blocks, slabs of a rectangular (square) shape. Heading 2515 covers a specific range of calcareous monumental or building stones, namely marble, travertine, ecaussine, and other calcareous stones with an apparent specific gravity of less than 2.5, as well as alabaster. This classification applies to these stones whether they are roughly trimmed or merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape. This precise definition is crucial, as it focuses on the primary, minimally processed forms of these valuable natural stones. Marble, a metamorphic rock, is renowned for its diverse colors, patterns, and ability to take a high polish, making it a premier choice for architecture, sculpture, and interior design. Travertine, a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, is characterized by its porous texture and earthy tones, popular for flooring and wall cladding. Ecaussine is a coarse-grained limestone often used for building. Alabaster, a soft, translucent form of gypsum or calcite, is primarily used for ornamental objects and sculptures. The 'apparent specific gravity of less than 2.5' criterion helps differentiate certain lighter calcareous stones. The scope of 2515 is limited to these natural stones in their initial block or slab forms. Further processing, such as polishing, chamfering, shaping into finished articles (e.g., countertops, tiles with finished edges, carved statues), or combining with other materials, would typically lead to classification in Chapter 68. This heading is for the raw material, not the finished product. Accurate classification is paramount for trade compliance, affecting import duties, taxes, and adherence to specific building material standards. Historically, these stones have been fundamental to human civilization, used in iconic structures and artworks for millennia. This heading belongs to Chapter 25, which encompasses natural mineral products in their crude or primary processed states, emphasizing their natural origin and minimal alteration.

Rough marble blocks, sawn marble slabs (rectangular), travertine blocks, travertine slabs (rectangular), ecaussine blocks, ecaussine slabs, alabaster blocks, alabaster slabs (rectangular), white marble slabs, black marble blocks, beige travertine slabs, green marble blocks, pink alabaster blocks, calcareous monumental stone blocks, calcareous building stone slabs, raw marble for sculpture, unpolished travertine slabs, untrimmed alabaster blocks, square marble slabs, marble quarry blocks, rough-cut travertine, natural ecaussine, rectangular alabaster stock, marble for countertops (pre-cut slabs).

A common misclassification error involves distinguishing these stones from other monumental or building stones. For example, granite, porphyry, basalt, and sandstone fall under 2516, not 2515, due to their different geological compositions. Another frequent mistake is classifying finished articles made from these stones, such as polished marble countertops, carved alabaster statues, or tiles with specific shapes and finished edges, which typically belong to Chapter 68 (e.g., 6802). The key is the 'calcareous' nature (for most), the specific gravity criterion, and the processing level: 'roughly trimmed' or 'cut... into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape' only.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2515 in UN Comtrade data were Türkiye ($647M, 32% of world exports), Italy ($454M) and Greece ($138M). World exports came to about $2.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 2515 in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.2B, 57% of world imports), India ($341M) and Italy ($113M). World imports came to about $2.1B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 2515 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 25 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (15) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.