About HS Code 261100
Tungsten ores and concentrates are critical strategic minerals due to tungsten's unique properties, including extreme hardness and high melting point, making it indispensable for cutting tools, military applications, and lighting filaments. The global trade in these concentrates primarily serves industries involved in manufacturing cemented carbides, high-speed steel, and superalloys. Key importers are industrialized nations like China, the United States, and Germany, which possess advanced manufacturing capabilities. Major exporters include China, Vietnam, and Russia, countries with significant tungsten reserves. The market for tungsten ores is often characterized by supply chain complexities, including concerns over conflict minerals and responsible sourcing, particularly for regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo. Price fluctuations are common, influenced by global industrial demand, geopolitical events, and environmental regulations affecting mining operations. The purity and specific form (e.g., scheelite or wolframite) of the concentrate are crucial for its end-use applications.
Products Under This Code
Wolframite concentrate, Scheelite concentrate, Tungsten ore fines, High-grade tungsten concentrate, Low-grade tungsten ore, APT (Ammonium Paratungstate) precursor
Real World Examples
China Minmetals, Vietnam National Coal-Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin), Almonty Industries (Spain/Portugal), W Resources (Spain)
Common Misclassification
This code should not be confused with unwrought tungsten (HS 810110) or tungsten waste and scrap (HS 810197), which are processed forms of the metal.
Products Classified Under 2611.00
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
China is both a dominant producer and consumer, with Vietnam and Russia also significant exporters, and the US and Germany as key importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 261100?
HS code 261100 covers: Tungsten ores and concentrates. Tungsten ores and concentrates are critical strategic minerals due to tungsten's unique properties, including extreme hardness and high melting point, making it indispensable for cutting tools, military applications, and lighting filaments. The global trade in these concentrates primarily serves industries involved in manufacturing cemented carbides, high-speed steel, and superalloys. Key importers are industrialized nations like China, the United States, and Germany, which possess advanced manufacturing capabilities. Major exporters include China, Vietnam, and Russia, countries with significant tungsten reserves. The market for tungsten ores is often characterized by supply chain complexities, including concerns over conflict minerals and responsible sourcing, particularly for regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo. Price fluctuations are common, influenced by global industrial demand, geopolitical events, and environmental regulations affecting mining operations. The purity and specific form (e.g., scheelite or wolframite) of the concentrate are crucial for its end-use applications.
What products fall under HS code 261100?
Wolframite concentrate, Scheelite concentrate, Tungsten ore fines, High-grade tungsten concentrate, Low-grade tungsten ore, APT (Ammonium Paratungstate) precursor
What are common misclassifications for HS code 261100?
This code should not be confused with unwrought tungsten (HS 810110) or tungsten waste and scrap (HS 810197), which are processed forms of the metal.
How is HS code 261100 structured?
HS code 261100 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (26) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (11) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.