HS Code 25.24 – Asbestos

HS code 2524 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Asbestos. HS Code 2524 is dedicated exclusively to asbestos. Asbestos refers to a group of six naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals, including chrysotile, crocidolite, and amosite, renowned for their exceptional heat resistance, insulating properties, and tensile strength. This heading encompasses asbestos in all its raw and semi-processed forms: crude asbestos, processed asbestos fibers, and asbestos waste. The classification is critical for identifying the material itself, as distinct from manufactured articles containing asbestos, which are generally covered under heading 6812. The scope extends to all types of asbestos fibers, whether loose, bundled, or in rock form, before they are incorporated into finished goods. The historical context of asbestos is pivotal to understanding its trade significance. Widely used throughout the 20th century in construction, automotive, and industrial applications, its trade has drastically declined due to the discovery of severe health hazards, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Consequently, trade compliance under 2524 is of paramount importance. Many countries have implemented outright bans or extremely stringent regulations on the import, export, and use of asbestos. Correct classification immediately flags the product for intense scrutiny, requiring strict adherence to national and international environmental, health, and safety laws, including special handling, licensing, and disposal protocols. Misclassification can lead to severe legal penalties and significant reputational damage. Within Section V, Chapter 25, which covers 'earths and stone,' asbestos is categorized as a natural mineral, but its unique hazardous properties make it a highly regulated and restricted commodity in global trade.

Raw chrysotile asbestos, Crocidolite asbestos fibers, Amosite asbestos lumps, Asbestos waste, Anthophyllite asbestos, Tremolite asbestos, Actinolite asbestos, Milled asbestos fibers, Asbestos shorts, Asbestos floats, Asbestos rock, Asbestos ore, Loose asbestos fibers, Asbestos dust, Asbestos bundles, Untreated asbestos, Dry asbestos, Wet asbestos, Asbestos for specific industrial uses (where permitted), Bulk asbestos, Asbestos for historical preservation (where permitted), Asbestos for research purposes (where permitted), Asbestos for specialized gaskets (where permitted)

Misclassification of products under HS 2524 carries significant legal and environmental risks due to the hazardous nature of asbestos. The most common error is confusing raw asbestos with **6812 (Fabricated asbestos fibers; mixtures with a basis of asbestos or with a basis of asbestos and magnesium carbonate; articles of such mixtures or of asbestos)**. Heading 2524 is strictly for the raw, unprocessed, or minimally processed mineral, while 6812 covers manufactured articles containing asbestos (e.g., asbestos textiles, gaskets, brake linings). Another mistake is misidentifying asbestos as other fibrous minerals, such as certain forms of **2526 (Natural steatite; talc)** or even other silicates. The fibrous structure and specific mineralogical composition of asbestos are key to its identification. Any attempt to disguise asbestos as a non-hazardous mineral to bypass regulations is a severe compliance violation.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2524 in UN Comtrade data were Russia (about $240M, 55% of world exports), Kazakhstan ($90M) and Brazil ($85M). World exports came to about $434M, 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 2524 in UN Comtrade data were India ($242M, 51% of world imports), Indonesia ($48M) and China ($44M). World imports came to about $476M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Uzbekistan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 30% of its imports here ($14M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.

HS code 2524 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 25 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (24) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.