HS Code Subheading

Carbonates; lithium carbonate

2836.91 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 283691

Lithium carbonate is a vital inorganic compound, serving as a cornerstone in the rapidly expanding lithium-ion battery industry, which powers electric vehicles and portable electronics. Beyond batteries, it's also used in ceramics, glass, and as a mood stabilizer in pharmaceuticals. International trade in lithium carbonate is dominated by countries with significant lithium reserves (brine or hard rock) and processing capabilities, supplying it to manufacturing hubs for batteries and other high-tech products. Key factors influencing its trade include purity levels (battery grade vs. technical grade), pricing volatility driven by global demand for EVs, and geopolitical considerations related to resource access. The global push for decarbonization has made this compound a strategic commodity.

Products Under This Code

Battery-grade lithium carbonate, Technical-grade lithium carbonate, Pharmaceutical-grade lithium carbonate, Lithium carbonate powder, Lithium carbonate granules

Real World Examples

SQM Lithium Carbonate, Albemarle Lithium Carbonate, Ganfeng Lithium Carbonate, Livent Lithium Carbonate

Common Misclassification

This code is specific to lithium carbonate and should not be confused with other lithium compounds like lithium hydroxide (2825.20) or other carbonates (e.g., 2836.20 for sodium carbonate), which have distinct applications.

Products Classified Under 2836.91

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include China, South Korea, and Japan, while major exporters are Chile, Argentina, and Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 283691?

HS code 283691 covers: Carbonates; lithium carbonate. Lithium carbonate is a vital inorganic compound, serving as a cornerstone in the rapidly expanding lithium-ion battery industry, which powers electric vehicles and portable electronics. Beyond batteries, it's also used in ceramics, glass, and as a mood stabilizer in pharmaceuticals. International trade in lithium carbonate is dominated by countries with significant lithium reserves (brine or hard rock) and processing capabilities, supplying it to manufacturing hubs for batteries and other high-tech products. Key factors influencing its trade include purity levels (battery grade vs. technical grade), pricing volatility driven by global demand for EVs, and geopolitical considerations related to resource access. The global push for decarbonization has made this compound a strategic commodity.

What products fall under HS code 283691?

Battery-grade lithium carbonate, Technical-grade lithium carbonate, Pharmaceutical-grade lithium carbonate, Lithium carbonate powder, Lithium carbonate granules

What are common misclassifications for HS code 283691?

This code is specific to lithium carbonate and should not be confused with other lithium compounds like lithium hydroxide (2825.20) or other carbonates (e.g., 2836.20 for sodium carbonate), which have distinct applications.

How is HS code 283691 structured?

HS code 283691 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (36) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.