HS Code 28.10 – Oxides of boron; boric acids

HS code 2810 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Oxides of boron; boric acids. Heading 2810 encompasses Oxides of boron and Boric acids, a group of versatile inorganic chemicals with a wide array of industrial and consumer applications. Boric acid (H3BO3), the most common form, is a mild acid known for its antiseptic, flame-retardant, and insecticidal properties. It is extensively used in the manufacture of fiberglass, ceramics, glazes, detergents, and as an agricultural micronutrient. Boron oxides (e.g., boron trioxide, B2O3), also known as boric anhydride, serve as precursors to other boron compounds, as fluxes in glass and ceramic production, and as components in specialty glasses and enamels. The scope of this heading includes various hydrated and anhydrous forms of boric acid and its oxides. Accurate classification under 2810 is crucial for trade compliance, as it impacts tariff rates, safety data sheet requirements, and specific regulations, particularly for applications like pesticides or food additives. Historically, boron compounds have been utilized since ancient times, with borax (a sodium borate, closely related) being used in metallurgy and medicine. These chemicals fall within Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals, distinguishing them from organic boron compounds or specialized mixtures. Understanding the specific chemical form, purity, and intended application is vital for proper classification and navigating the diverse regulatory landscape.

Boric acid (orthoboric acid), boron oxide (boric anhydride), boron trioxide, metaboric acid, tetraboric acid, anhydrous boric acid, decahydrate boric acid, boric acid for fiberglass manufacturing, boric acid for ceramics, boric acid for detergents, boric acid for agriculture, boric acid for fire retardants, boric acid for antiseptics, boron oxide for specialty glass, boron oxide for enamels, boron oxide for metallurgical fluxes, chemically pure boric acid, reagent-grade boric acid, industrial-grade boric acid, boric acid for wood preservatives, boric acid for nuclear applications, boric acid for laboratory use, boric acid flakes, boric acid powder.

Common misclassification mistakes for HS 2810 often involve confusing boric acid and boron oxides with related boron compounds, particularly borates (HS 2840), such as borax or sodium borates. While chemically similar, 2840 specifically covers the salts of boric acids. Another error is classifying mixtures containing boric acid, such as certain insecticides (HS 3808) or cleaning preparations (HS 3402), under 2810 instead of their more specific functional headings. Traders might also mistakenly classify boron carbide (HS 2849) or other specific boron compounds under this heading, leading to incorrect duties and regulatory non-compliance.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2810 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($212M, 42% of world exports), Chile ($85M) and Russia (about $60M). World exports came to about $502M, 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 2810 in UN Comtrade data were China ($283M, 38% of world imports), Brazil ($72M) and the United States ($45M). World imports came to about $747M, 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 2810 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (10) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.