HS Code 28.06 – Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid); chlorosulphuric acid

HS code 2806 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid); chlorosulphuric acid. Heading 2806 specifically encompasses Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid) and chlorosulphuric acid, two vital inorganic chemicals with extensive industrial applications. Hydrochloric acid, often referred to as Muriatic acid, is a strong, corrosive mineral acid that is colorless and highly pungent. It is a fundamental reagent in chemical manufacturing, playing a crucial role in the production of vinyl chloride for PVC, various organic compounds, and pharmaceuticals. Its scope extends to different concentrations, from dilute solutions used in household cleaners to highly concentrated forms essential for industrial processes. Chlorosulphuric acid, on the other hand, is a much stronger and highly reactive acid, primarily used in the synthesis of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides, as well as in the production of other chemical intermediates. This classification is critical for trade compliance as it dictates tariff rates, import/export regulations, and safety standards due to the corrosive nature of these substances. Proper classification ensures adherence to dangerous goods regulations (e.g., UN numbers, packaging requirements) which are paramount for safe transportation and handling. Historically, hydrochloric acid was one of the earliest known acids, discovered by alchemists in the Middle Ages, and its industrial production scaled significantly with the rise of the chemical industry. These acids fall under Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals, distinguishing them from organic compounds and mixtures classified elsewhere. Understanding the specific forms and concentrations is key to accurate classification within this heading.

Hydrochloric acid (technical grade), hydrochloric acid (food grade), concentrated hydrochloric acid, dilute hydrochloric acid, anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas, fuming hydrochloric acid, muriatic acid, chlorosulphuric acid, chlorosulfonic acid (for synthesis), hydrogen chloride in aqueous solution, high-purity hydrochloric acid for electronics, hydrochloric acid for steel pickling, hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment, hydrochloric acid for oil well acidizing, hydrochloric acid for regeneration of ion exchange resins, chlorosulphuric acid for dye intermediate synthesis, chlorosulphuric acid for pharmaceutical synthesis, chlorosulphuric acid for pesticide synthesis, hydrogen chloride solution for laboratory use, chemically pure hydrochloric acid, hydrochloric acid for water treatment, industrial-grade hydrochloric acid.

Common misclassification mistakes under HS 2806 involve confusing pure acids with their formulated mixtures or derivatives. Traders might incorrectly classify dilute hydrochloric acid solutions as cleaning preparations (HS 3402) if they are marketed for such use, even if the acid is the primary active ingredient. Another common error is classifying anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas cylinders under other compressed gases (HS 2804) or specific chemical mixtures (HS 3824), rather than under 2806 which specifically covers the pure compound. Misclassifying chlorosulphuric acid as a general sulfur compound (HS 2813) or a different halogenated acid (e.g., HS 2811 for other inorganic acids) can also occur, leading to incorrect duties and regulatory non-compliance.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2806 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($68M, 16% of world exports), Canada ($57M) and Japan ($33M). World exports came to about $419M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 2806 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($70M, 15% of world imports), France ($53M) and Germany ($28M). World imports came to about $454M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 2806 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (06) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.