About HS Code 280461
This HS code covers high-purity silicon, specifically material with a silicon content of 99.99% or more. This ultra-pure silicon is the bedrock of the semiconductor industry, essential for manufacturing integrated circuits, microprocessors, and solar cells. Its exceptional purity is critical for electronic performance, as even trace impurities can significantly alter electrical properties. Major importers are countries with robust electronics manufacturing and solar panel industries, including Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China, and the United States. Exporters are typically countries with advanced metallurgical and chemical processing capabilities, such as China, Germany, and the United States. Key aspects of trade include stringent quality control, certification of purity levels, and the high capital investment required for production facilities. The global demand for this material is directly tied to the growth of consumer electronics, data centers, and renewable energy initiatives, making it a strategically important commodity.
Products Under This Code
Polycrystalline silicon, Monocrystalline silicon ingots, Silicon wafers (unprocessed), Solar-grade silicon, Electronic-grade silicon, Semiconductor-grade silicon
Real World Examples
Wacker Polysilicon, Hemlock Semiconductor, GCL-Poly, REC Silicon, Shin-Etsu Chemical Silicon Wafers
Common Misclassification
This code is often confused with lower-purity silicon under 2804.69, or with silicon in primary forms for metallurgical use (e.g., ferrosilicon in 7202.2x), but the key differentiator is the "not less than 99.99%" purity threshold.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.
Products Classified Under 2804.61
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, Germany, and the United States are leading producers, while Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan are major importers due to their semiconductor industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 280461?
HS code 280461 covers: Silicon; containing by weight not less than 99.99% of silicon. This HS code covers high-purity silicon, specifically material with a silicon content of 99.99% or more. This ultra-pure silicon is the bedrock of the semiconductor industry, essential for manufacturing integrated circuits, microprocessors, and solar cells. Its exceptional purity is critical for electronic performance, as even trace impurities can significantly alter electrical properties. Major importers are countries with robust electronics manufacturing and solar panel industries, including Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China, and the United States. Exporters are typically countries with advanced metallurgical and chemical processing capabilities, such as China, Germany, and the United States. Key aspects of trade include stringent quality control, certification of purity levels, and the high capital investment required for production facilities. The global demand for this material is directly tied to the growth of consumer electronics, data centers, and renewable energy initiatives, making it a strategically important commodity.
What products fall under HS code 280461?
Polycrystalline silicon, Monocrystalline silicon ingots, Silicon wafers (unprocessed), Solar-grade silicon, Electronic-grade silicon, Semiconductor-grade silicon
What are common misclassifications for HS code 280461?
This code is often confused with lower-purity silicon under 2804.69, or with silicon in primary forms for metallurgical use (e.g., ferrosilicon in 7202.2x), but the key differentiator is the "not less than 99.99%" purity threshold.
How is HS code 280461 structured?
HS code 280461 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (61) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.