HS Code 28.23 – Titanium oxides

HS code 2823 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Titanium oxides. HS Code 2823 specifically covers all forms of titanium oxides, with titanium dioxide (TiO2) being the most prominent. This heading encompasses both the rutile and anatase crystalline forms of TiO2, which are critical for a vast array of industrial applications. The scope is confined to pure titanium dioxide and its industrial grades, including ultrafine and nano-sized particles, but it explicitly excludes raw titanium ores (Chapter 26) and prepared pigments or compounds containing TiO2 (Chapter 32). Key sub-categories differentiate between rutile, primarily used for its high opacity and durability in paints and plastics, and anatase, valued for its photocatalytic properties and use in cosmetics and self-cleaning surfaces. This classification is of immense importance for trade compliance due to titanium dioxide's status as a high-volume global commodity. Accurate classification ensures correct duty assessment, adherence to specific regulatory standards (e.g., for food contact, cosmetics, or environmental discharge), and compliance with product safety guidelines. Historically, TiO2 replaced lead-based pigments in the early 20th century, revolutionizing the paint and coatings industry. Its role continues to expand with advancements in nanotechnology and photocatalysis. As a fundamental inorganic chemical within Chapter 28, titanium oxide serves as a cornerstone material for countless downstream manufacturing sectors.

Titanium dioxide rutile pigment, titanium dioxide anatase pigment, high-purity TiO2, ultrafine titanium dioxide, nano titanium dioxide, titanium dioxide for paints, titanium dioxide for plastics, titanium dioxide for paper, titanium dioxide for printing inks, titanium dioxide for cosmetics, titanium dioxide for sunscreens, titanium dioxide for food coloring (E171), titanium dioxide for photocatalytic coatings, titanium dioxide for welding electrodes, titanium dioxide for ceramics, titanium dioxide for fibers, titanium dioxide for rubber, titanium dioxide for pharmaceuticals

Common misclassifications for HS 2823 often stem from confusing raw materials with processed chemicals or prepared formulations. Traders might incorrectly classify titanium ores and concentrates (HS 2614), such as ilmenite or rutile in their natural state, under 2823, overlooking that this heading is for processed titanium oxides. Another frequent error is classifying prepared pigments, masterbatches, or dispersions containing titanium dioxide under 2823 instead of HS 3206 (Other colouring matter; preparations), which covers formulated colouring materials. The key distinction is that 2823 is for pure titanium oxides, while 3206 is for mixtures or preparations.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2823 in UN Comtrade data were China ($100M, 18% of world exports), France ($79M) and India ($72M). World exports came to about $540M, 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 2823 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($78M, 10% of world imports), Germany ($74M) and India ($64M). World imports came to about $771M, 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 2823 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (23) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.