About HS Code 271490
This HS code covers naturally occurring forms of bitumen and asphalt, along with asphaltites and asphaltic rock. Unlike petroleum bitumen (271320), these materials are found in natural deposits and are not byproducts of crude oil refining. They are traded internationally for specialized applications, primarily in construction, roofing, and as components in certain industrial products. Major importers include countries requiring specific properties offered by natural bitumen for high-performance asphalt mixes, sealants, or waterproofing applications. Exporters are nations with significant natural deposits of these materials. Key trade considerations include their purity, hardness, softening point, and compatibility with other materials. The market for natural bitumen is smaller and more niche than for petroleum bitumen, driven by specific project requirements and the unique characteristics these natural materials impart.
Products Under This Code
Natural asphalt, Gilsonite, Trinidad Lake Asphalt, Rock asphalt, Asphaltite, Natural bitumen for roofing, Mastic asphalt, Natural asphalt for sealants
Real World Examples
Trinidad Lake Asphalt, Gilsonite (American Gilsonite Company), Uintah Basin Asphaltite, Bermudez Asphalt
Common Misclassification
This code is frequently confused with 271320 (petroleum bitumen) because both are used in asphalt, but 271490 is naturally occurring, while 271320 is a refinery product. It could also be mistaken for certain mineral aggregates (Chapter 25) if the bituminous content is overlooked.
Products Classified Under 2714.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, Germany, and Japan are significant importers, while Trinidad and Tobago, the USA, and Iran are major exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 271490?
HS code 271490 covers: Bitumen and asphalt, natural; asphaltites and asphaltic rock. This HS code covers naturally occurring forms of bitumen and asphalt, along with asphaltites and asphaltic rock. Unlike petroleum bitumen (271320), these materials are found in natural deposits and are not byproducts of crude oil refining. They are traded internationally for specialized applications, primarily in construction, roofing, and as components in certain industrial products. Major importers include countries requiring specific properties offered by natural bitumen for high-performance asphalt mixes, sealants, or waterproofing applications. Exporters are nations with significant natural deposits of these materials. Key trade considerations include their purity, hardness, softening point, and compatibility with other materials. The market for natural bitumen is smaller and more niche than for petroleum bitumen, driven by specific project requirements and the unique characteristics these natural materials impart.
What products fall under HS code 271490?
Natural asphalt, Gilsonite, Trinidad Lake Asphalt, Rock asphalt, Asphaltite, Natural bitumen for roofing, Mastic asphalt, Natural asphalt for sealants
What are common misclassifications for HS code 271490?
This code is frequently confused with 271320 (petroleum bitumen) because both are used in asphalt, but 271490 is naturally occurring, while 271320 is a refinery product. It could also be mistaken for certain mineral aggregates (Chapter 25) if the bituminous content is overlooked.
How is HS code 271490 structured?
HS code 271490 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (27) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (14) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.