About HS Code 280480
Arsenic, a metalloid element, is traded internationally primarily in its elemental form, though its compounds are more widely known. While highly toxic, elemental arsenic has niche but critical industrial applications. It is primarily used as an alloying agent, particularly in lead alloys to increase hardness and heat resistance, which are vital for battery grids and ammunition. In the semiconductor industry, high-purity arsenic is used to dope silicon and germanium, and in the production of gallium arsenide (GaAs) for high-speed integrated circuits, LEDs, and laser diodes. Major importers are countries with advanced electronics manufacturing, battery production, and specialized metallurgical industries, such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States. Exporters are typically countries with significant mining operations that yield arsenic as a byproduct, like China, Chile, and Peru. Trade in arsenic is heavily regulated due to its toxicity, requiring strict handling, transport, and disposal protocols, making it a controlled commodity.
Products Under This Code
Elemental arsenic, High-purity arsenic, Arsenic metal lumps, Arsenic powder, Gallium arsenide precursor, Lead-arsenic alloys
Real World Examples
Alfa Aesar Arsenic, American Elements Arsenic, Materion (high-purity materials), Sumitomo Chemical (GaAs wafers, uses arsenic), Freiberger Compound Materials (GaAs wafers)
Common Misclassification
This code specifically covers elemental arsenic, not its compounds like arsenic trioxide (2811.90) or arsenates (2842.90), which are classified separately based on their chemical structure.
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 2804.80
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, Chile, and Peru are significant producers of arsenic, with Japan, South Korea, and the United States being major importers for specialized industrial applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 280480?
HS code 280480 covers: Arsenic. Arsenic, a metalloid element, is traded internationally primarily in its elemental form, though its compounds are more widely known. While highly toxic, elemental arsenic has niche but critical industrial applications. It is primarily used as an alloying agent, particularly in lead alloys to increase hardness and heat resistance, which are vital for battery grids and ammunition. In the semiconductor industry, high-purity arsenic is used to dope silicon and germanium, and in the production of gallium arsenide (GaAs) for high-speed integrated circuits, LEDs, and laser diodes. Major importers are countries with advanced electronics manufacturing, battery production, and specialized metallurgical industries, such as Japan, South Korea, and the United States. Exporters are typically countries with significant mining operations that yield arsenic as a byproduct, like China, Chile, and Peru. Trade in arsenic is heavily regulated due to its toxicity, requiring strict handling, transport, and disposal protocols, making it a controlled commodity.
What products fall under HS code 280480?
Elemental arsenic, High-purity arsenic, Arsenic metal lumps, Arsenic powder, Gallium arsenide precursor, Lead-arsenic alloys
What are common misclassifications for HS code 280480?
This code specifically covers elemental arsenic, not its compounds like arsenic trioxide (2811.90) or arsenates (2842.90), which are classified separately based on their chemical structure.
How is HS code 280480 structured?
HS code 280480 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 (80) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.