About HS Code 260500
Cobalt ores and concentrates are strategically important commodities, primarily due to cobalt's critical role in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and portable electronics, as well as in superalloys for aerospace and defense. The global supply chain for cobalt is highly concentrated, with the Democratic Republic of Congo being the dominant source of mined cobalt. This concentration leads to significant geopolitical and ethical sourcing considerations in international trade. Importers are typically countries with advanced battery manufacturing and high-tech industries. The market is characterized by high demand, price volatility, and increasing scrutiny over supply chain transparency and sustainability practices.
Products Under This Code
Heterogenite concentrate, Carrolite concentrate, Cobalt-bearing copper ore, Cobalt-bearing nickel ore, Cobalt sulfide concentrate
Real World Examples
Glencore's cobalt concentrates, ERG's cobalt products, CMOC's cobalt ore, Katanga Mining cobalt
Common Misclassification
Often confused with 260400 (nickel ores) or 260300 (copper ores) as cobalt is frequently a byproduct of these mines, or 2822 (cobalt oxides) if processed.
Products Classified Under 2605.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
The Democratic Republic of Congo dominates cobalt ore exports, with China being the overwhelming primary importer for refining.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 260500?
HS code 260500 covers: Cobalt ores and concentrates. Cobalt ores and concentrates are strategically important commodities, primarily due to cobalt's critical role in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and portable electronics, as well as in superalloys for aerospace and defense. The global supply chain for cobalt is highly concentrated, with the Democratic Republic of Congo being the dominant source of mined cobalt. This concentration leads to significant geopolitical and ethical sourcing considerations in international trade. Importers are typically countries with advanced battery manufacturing and high-tech industries. The market is characterized by high demand, price volatility, and increasing scrutiny over supply chain transparency and sustainability practices.
What products fall under HS code 260500?
Heterogenite concentrate, Carrolite concentrate, Cobalt-bearing copper ore, Cobalt-bearing nickel ore, Cobalt sulfide concentrate
What are common misclassifications for HS code 260500?
Often confused with 260400 (nickel ores) or 260300 (copper ores) as cobalt is frequently a byproduct of these mines, or 2822 (cobalt oxides) if processed.
How is HS code 260500 structured?
HS code 260500 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (26) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.