HS Code Subheading

Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid)

2806.10 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 280610

Hydrogen chloride, commonly known as hydrochloric acid, is a fundamental inorganic chemical with extensive applications across numerous industries, making it a consistently traded commodity globally. This strong mineral acid is crucial for steel pickling, a process that removes rust and impurities from steel before further processing, and is also vital in the production of organic compounds like PVC, vinyl chloride, and various pharmaceuticals. Other significant uses include pH control in water treatment, regeneration of ion-exchange resins, and as a laboratory reagent. Major importers are typically industrialized nations with robust manufacturing sectors, particularly those involved in metallurgy, chemical synthesis, and food processing. Exporters are often large chemical producers with access to raw materials like chlorine and hydrogen, or by-products from other chemical processes. Key aspects of its trade involve careful handling and transportation due to its corrosive nature, requiring specialized containers and adherence to international hazardous materials regulations. Its widespread utility ensures a steady demand, making it a staple in the global chemical supply chain, with trade volumes often reflecting industrial activity and economic growth.

Products Under This Code

Hydrochloric acid (HCl), muriatic acid, hydrogen chloride gas, industrial-grade HCl, food-grade HCl

Real World Examples

Dow Chemical Hydrochloric Acid, BASF HCl, Olin Chlor Alkali HCl, Axiall HCl, Westlake Chemical HCl

Common Misclassification

This code covers both anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas and its aqueous solution (hydrochloric acid). It might be confused with other strong acids like sulfuric acid (280700) or nitric acid (280800) due to similar industrial applications, but their chemical compositions are distinct.

Products Classified Under 2806.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, the United States, and Germany are major producers and consumers, with significant trade flows between industrial hubs globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 280610?

HS code 280610 covers: Hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid). Hydrogen chloride, commonly known as hydrochloric acid, is a fundamental inorganic chemical with extensive applications across numerous industries, making it a consistently traded commodity globally. This strong mineral acid is crucial for steel pickling, a process that removes rust and impurities from steel before further processing, and is also vital in the production of organic compounds like PVC, vinyl chloride, and various pharmaceuticals. Other significant uses include pH control in water treatment, regeneration of ion-exchange resins, and as a laboratory reagent. Major importers are typically industrialized nations with robust manufacturing sectors, particularly those involved in metallurgy, chemical synthesis, and food processing. Exporters are often large chemical producers with access to raw materials like chlorine and hydrogen, or by-products from other chemical processes. Key aspects of its trade involve careful handling and transportation due to its corrosive nature, requiring specialized containers and adherence to international hazardous materials regulations. Its widespread utility ensures a steady demand, making it a staple in the global chemical supply chain, with trade volumes often reflecting industrial activity and economic growth.

What products fall under HS code 280610?

Hydrochloric acid (HCl), muriatic acid, hydrogen chloride gas, industrial-grade HCl, food-grade HCl

What are common misclassifications for HS code 280610?

This code covers both anhydrous hydrogen chloride gas and its aqueous solution (hydrochloric acid). It might be confused with other strong acids like sulfuric acid (280700) or nitric acid (280800) due to similar industrial applications, but their chemical compositions are distinct.

How is HS code 280610 structured?

HS code 280610 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (06) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.