About HS Code 261000
Chromium ores and concentrates are vital for the production of ferrochrome, which is then used to manufacture stainless steel, a cornerstone of modern construction, automotive, and consumer goods industries. These raw materials are primarily sourced from countries with rich chromite deposits and then shipped globally to smelters. Major importers include China, India, and European Union nations, all of which have substantial stainless steel production capacities. Key exporters are South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. The trade in chromium ores is influenced by global steel demand, energy costs for smelting, and environmental regulations concerning mining and processing. The quality of the concentrate, particularly its chromium-to-iron ratio and impurity levels, significantly impacts its market price and suitability for various metallurgical applications. Geopolitical stability in major producing regions can also affect supply chains and price stability.
Products Under This Code
Chromite ore, High-grade chromite concentrate, Metallurgical chromite, Chemical-grade chromite, Foundry-grade chromite, Refractory-grade chromite
Real World Examples
Samancor Chrome (South Africa), Eurasian Resources Group (Kazakhstan), Yildirim Group (Turkey), Merafe Resources (South Africa)
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from ferro-chromium (HS 720241 or 720249), which is an alloy produced from chromite ore, or chromium waste and scrap (HS 720429).
Products Classified Under 2610.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey are leading exporters, with China and India being major importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 261000?
HS code 261000 covers: Chromium ores and concentrates. Chromium ores and concentrates are vital for the production of ferrochrome, which is then used to manufacture stainless steel, a cornerstone of modern construction, automotive, and consumer goods industries. These raw materials are primarily sourced from countries with rich chromite deposits and then shipped globally to smelters. Major importers include China, India, and European Union nations, all of which have substantial stainless steel production capacities. Key exporters are South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. The trade in chromium ores is influenced by global steel demand, energy costs for smelting, and environmental regulations concerning mining and processing. The quality of the concentrate, particularly its chromium-to-iron ratio and impurity levels, significantly impacts its market price and suitability for various metallurgical applications. Geopolitical stability in major producing regions can also affect supply chains and price stability.
What products fall under HS code 261000?
Chromite ore, High-grade chromite concentrate, Metallurgical chromite, Chemical-grade chromite, Foundry-grade chromite, Refractory-grade chromite
What are common misclassifications for HS code 261000?
This code is distinct from ferro-chromium (HS 720241 or 720249), which is an alloy produced from chromite ore, or chromium waste and scrap (HS 720429).
How is HS code 261000 structured?
HS code 261000 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (26) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (10) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.