About HS Code 261790
This 'basket' HS code covers a diverse range of metallic ores and concentrates not elsewhere specified in Chapter 26, excluding antimony. This includes ores of strategic metals like titanium, zirconium, vanadium, niobium, tantalum, and rare earth elements, among others. Trade in these materials is often niche but critical for high-tech industries such as aerospace, electronics, renewable energy, and specialized manufacturing. Importers are typically advanced industrial economies seeking specific raw materials for their high-value production, while exporters are countries endowed with unique geological resources. Due to their strategic importance, supply chain security, geopolitical factors, and environmental considerations in mining and processing significantly impact their international trade.
Products Under This Code
Titanium ore concentrate, zirconium ore concentrate, vanadium ore, niobium concentrate, tantalum ore, rare earth element concentrate, lithium ore concentrate, tungsten ore concentrate
Real World Examples
Iluka Resources (Australia - zircon/titanium), Lynas Rare Earths (Australia - rare earths), AMG Critical Materials (Germany - tantalum/niobium), Rio Tinto (various specialty minerals)
Common Misclassification
As a residual category, misclassification often occurs with more specific ore codes (2601-2616) if the primary metal is misidentified, or with 2846 (rare earth compounds) if processing has advanced beyond simple concentration.
Products Classified Under 2617.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
Australia, China, and Brazil are key exporters, while Japan, USA, and Germany are major importers for these specialized ores.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 261790?
HS code 261790 covers: Ores and concentrates n.e.c. in chapter 26; other than antimony. This 'basket' HS code covers a diverse range of metallic ores and concentrates not elsewhere specified in Chapter 26, excluding antimony. This includes ores of strategic metals like titanium, zirconium, vanadium, niobium, tantalum, and rare earth elements, among others. Trade in these materials is often niche but critical for high-tech industries such as aerospace, electronics, renewable energy, and specialized manufacturing. Importers are typically advanced industrial economies seeking specific raw materials for their high-value production, while exporters are countries endowed with unique geological resources. Due to their strategic importance, supply chain security, geopolitical factors, and environmental considerations in mining and processing significantly impact their international trade.
What products fall under HS code 261790?
Titanium ore concentrate, zirconium ore concentrate, vanadium ore, niobium concentrate, tantalum ore, rare earth element concentrate, lithium ore concentrate, tungsten ore concentrate
What are common misclassifications for HS code 261790?
As a residual category, misclassification often occurs with more specific ore codes (2601-2616) if the primary metal is misidentified, or with 2846 (rare earth compounds) if processing has advanced beyond simple concentration.
How is HS code 261790 structured?
HS code 261790 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (26) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (17) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.