About HS Code 260400
Nickel ores and concentrates are traded under this code, representing a crucial input for various industries, most notably stainless steel production, electric vehicle batteries, and superalloys. The global trade involves two primary types: sulfide ores (processed into concentrates) and laterite ores (often processed via pyrometallurgy or hydrometallurgy). Major mining companies extract these ores, which are then exported to countries with advanced processing facilities. The market is highly dynamic, driven by demand from the automotive sector's shift to EVs and the ongoing need for corrosion-resistant materials. Understanding the nickel content and the presence of other valuable elements like cobalt is key for trade participants.
Products Under This Code
Nickel sulfide concentrate, Nickel laterite ore, Garnierite ore, Limonite ore (nickel-bearing), Saprolite ore (nickel-bearing)
Real World Examples
Norilsk Nickel concentrates, Vale's nickel ore, Glencore's nickel products, Sumitomo Metal Mining's nickel laterite
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 7502 (unwrought nickel) if it's already processed into metal, or 260500 (cobalt ores) as they often occur together.
Products Classified Under 2604.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
Indonesia, Philippines, and Canada are major exporters, while China, Japan, and South Korea are key importers for their metallurgical industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 260400?
HS code 260400 covers: Nickel ores and concentrates. Nickel ores and concentrates are traded under this code, representing a crucial input for various industries, most notably stainless steel production, electric vehicle batteries, and superalloys. The global trade involves two primary types: sulfide ores (processed into concentrates) and laterite ores (often processed via pyrometallurgy or hydrometallurgy). Major mining companies extract these ores, which are then exported to countries with advanced processing facilities. The market is highly dynamic, driven by demand from the automotive sector's shift to EVs and the ongoing need for corrosion-resistant materials. Understanding the nickel content and the presence of other valuable elements like cobalt is key for trade participants.
What products fall under HS code 260400?
Nickel sulfide concentrate, Nickel laterite ore, Garnierite ore, Limonite ore (nickel-bearing), Saprolite ore (nickel-bearing)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 260400?
Can be confused with 7502 (unwrought nickel) if it's already processed into metal, or 260500 (cobalt ores) as they often occur together.
How is HS code 260400 structured?
HS code 260400 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (26) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.