HS Code 28.24 – Lead oxides; red lead and orange lead

HS code 2824 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Lead oxides; red lead and orange lead. HS Code 2824 specifically covers lead oxides, including the historically significant red lead (minium) and orange lead, along with other forms such as lead monoxide (litharge) and lead dioxide. This heading encompasses the pure chemical compounds of lead oxides and their commercial grades. The scope is strictly limited to these oxides and excludes raw lead ores (Chapter 26) and other lead compounds (e.g., sulfates, carbonates) or prepared pigments/products containing lead oxides (Chapter 32). Key sub-categories include various purity levels of litharge for battery manufacturing, red lead for specific industrial anti-corrosion applications, and lead oxides for specialty glass or ceramic glazes. The classification under 2824 is paramount for trade compliance due to the inherent toxicity of lead, which has led to stringent global regulations. Accurate classification ensures adherence to international chemical conventions, regional bans (e.g., RoHS in EU, Proposition 65 in California), and proper handling and documentation for hazardous materials. Historically, lead oxides were vital pigments and battery components, but their use has been significantly curtailed in many consumer applications. This heading, within Chapter 28, represents a group of inorganic chemicals still critical for specific industrial niches where lead's unique properties are indispensable and its use is permitted under strict controls.

Lead monoxide (litharge), red lead (minium), orange lead, lead dioxide, battery-grade litharge, lead oxide for crystal glass, lead oxide for ceramic glazes, lead oxide for PVC stabilizers, lead oxide for radiation shielding glass, lead oxide for corrosion-resistant paints (restricted), lead oxide for sealing compounds, lead oxide for pyrotechnics, lead oxide for rubber vulcanization, lead oxide for high-temperature lubricants, lead oxide for lead-acid batteries, lead oxide for varistors

Common misclassifications for HS 2824 typically involve confusing raw lead materials with processed chemicals or prepared products. Traders might mistakenly classify lead ores and concentrates (HS 2607) under 2824, failing to differentiate between the raw mineral and the manufactured oxide. Another frequent error is classifying other lead compounds, such as lead sulfates (HS 2833) or lead carbonates (HS 2836), as lead oxides. Additionally, prepared paints, pigments, or frits containing lead oxides might be incorrectly placed here instead of under HS 3206 (Other colouring matter; preparations). Given the severe restrictions on lead, precise classification and strict adherence to chemical regulations are critical to avoid penalties.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2824 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($39M, 26% of world exports), Taiwan (about $13M) and India ($13M). World exports came to about $150M, 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 2824 in UN Comtrade data were Poland ($15M, 11% of world imports), Czechia ($12M) and the United Arab Emirates (about $11M). World imports came to about $137M, 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 2824 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (24) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.