HS Code Subheading

Polyphosphates; sodium triphosphate (sodium tripolyphosphate), whether or not chemically defined

2835.31 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 283531

Sodium triphosphate, commonly known as sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), is a widely traded polyphosphate under this HS code. It's a critical ingredient primarily used as a builder in detergents, enhancing cleaning efficiency by sequestering hard water minerals. Beyond detergents, STPP also finds applications in food preservation, as a preservative and emulsifier, and in water treatment. Countries with large consumer goods manufacturing sectors, particularly those producing laundry detergents and processed foods, are significant importers. Exporters are typically nations with robust chemical industries and access to phosphate raw materials. Key considerations in trade include purity levels, particle size, and compliance with food safety or environmental regulations, especially concerning its use in detergents due to environmental impact concerns in some regions. Its global demand is closely tied to household consumption patterns and industrial processing needs.

Products Under This Code

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) granular, Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) powder, Food grade STPP, Industrial grade STPP, Detergent grade STPP, Technical grade STPP

Real World Examples

P&G (detergents), Unilever (detergents), Innophos (food ingredients), ICL (industrial chemicals)

Common Misclassification

This code is quite specific, but it could be confused with other sodium phosphates like 283522 (mono- or disodium orthophosphates) if the "poly" aspect is overlooked, or with 283539 if it's another polyphosphate.

Products Classified Under 2835.31

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China is a dominant exporter, while major importers include India, Indonesia, and the USA, driven by their large detergent and food processing industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 283531?

HS code 283531 covers: Polyphosphates; sodium triphosphate (sodium tripolyphosphate), whether or not chemically defined. Sodium triphosphate, commonly known as sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP), is a widely traded polyphosphate under this HS code. It's a critical ingredient primarily used as a builder in detergents, enhancing cleaning efficiency by sequestering hard water minerals. Beyond detergents, STPP also finds applications in food preservation, as a preservative and emulsifier, and in water treatment. Countries with large consumer goods manufacturing sectors, particularly those producing laundry detergents and processed foods, are significant importers. Exporters are typically nations with robust chemical industries and access to phosphate raw materials. Key considerations in trade include purity levels, particle size, and compliance with food safety or environmental regulations, especially concerning its use in detergents due to environmental impact concerns in some regions. Its global demand is closely tied to household consumption patterns and industrial processing needs.

What products fall under HS code 283531?

Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) granular, Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) powder, Food grade STPP, Industrial grade STPP, Detergent grade STPP, Technical grade STPP

What are common misclassifications for HS code 283531?

This code is quite specific, but it could be confused with other sodium phosphates like 283522 (mono- or disodium orthophosphates) if the "poly" aspect is overlooked, or with 283539 if it's another polyphosphate.

How is HS code 283531 structured?

HS code 283531 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (35) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.