HS Code Subheading

Cement clinkers (whether or not coloured)

2523.10 Subheading
Section V — Mineral products

About HS Code 252310

Cement clinkers are an intermediate product in the manufacture of Portland cement, formed by heating limestone and other raw materials in a rotary kiln. This granular material is then ground with gypsum and other additives to produce finished cement. International trade in clinkers is significant, often occurring when countries have abundant raw materials and efficient clinker production but lack sufficient grinding capacity, or vice-versa. Major exporters include nations with large-scale, cost-effective clinker plants, while importers are typically countries with cement grinding facilities but limited access to limestone or energy for clinkerization. Key trade considerations involve bulk shipping logistics, energy costs, and increasingly, carbon emissions regulations like CBAM, which impact the competitiveness of clinker imports.

Products Under This Code

Portland cement clinker, white cement clinker, grey cement clinker, blast furnace slag clinker, fly ash clinker

Real World Examples

LafargeHolcim clinker, HeidelbergCement clinker, Cemex clinker, UltraTech Cement clinker

Common Misclassification

This code covers the unground intermediate product. It can be confused with finished Portland cement (252321, 252329) if not clearly identified as clinker.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.

Products Classified Under 2523.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.

Trade Overview

Top exporters include Vietnam, Turkey, and Pakistan, while major importers are often countries with grinding facilities but limited raw material access.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 252310?

HS code 252310 covers: Cement clinkers (whether or not coloured). Cement clinkers are an intermediate product in the manufacture of Portland cement, formed by heating limestone and other raw materials in a rotary kiln. This granular material is then ground with gypsum and other additives to produce finished cement. International trade in clinkers is significant, often occurring when countries have abundant raw materials and efficient clinker production but lack sufficient grinding capacity, or vice-versa. Major exporters include nations with large-scale, cost-effective clinker plants, while importers are typically countries with cement grinding facilities but limited access to limestone or energy for clinkerization. Key trade considerations involve bulk shipping logistics, energy costs, and increasingly, carbon emissions regulations like CBAM, which impact the competitiveness of clinker imports.

What products fall under HS code 252310?

Portland cement clinker, white cement clinker, grey cement clinker, blast furnace slag clinker, fly ash clinker

What are common misclassifications for HS code 252310?

This code covers the unground intermediate product. It can be confused with finished Portland cement (252321, 252329) if not clearly identified as clinker.

How is HS code 252310 structured?

HS code 252310 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (23) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.