About HS Code 285210
This HS code covers chemically defined inorganic or organic compounds of mercury, excluding amalgams. Due to the extreme toxicity of mercury and its compounds, international trade in these substances is highly regulated and has significantly declined following global environmental conventions like the Minamata Convention. Historically, mercury compounds found uses in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, pigments, catalysts, and scientific instruments. Today, their trade is largely restricted to very specific, essential industrial or research purposes where no viable alternatives exist, and under stringent environmental controls. Importers and exporters are typically specialized chemical companies or research institutions operating under strict permits. The global movement of these compounds is meticulously monitored to prevent environmental contamination and protect human health, reflecting a global shift away from mercury-containing products.
Products Under This Code
Mercuric chloride, Mercuric oxide, Mercurous chloride (calomel), Methylmercury chloride, Phenylmercury acetate, Mercury(II) sulfide
Real World Examples
Used in some specialized batteries (historical), laboratory reagents, specific catalysts (e.g., for vinyl chloride production, though declining)
Common Misclassification
This code is for chemically defined mercury compounds. It's distinct from 285290 (not chemically defined) and amalgams (285390). Elemental mercury is under 280540.
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
Trade is highly restricted globally due to the Minamata Convention; limited quantities are traded for essential uses, often involving specialized chemical suppliers in Europe and Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 285210?
HS code 285210 covers: Inorganic or organic compounds of mercury, excluding amalgams, chemically defined. This HS code covers chemically defined inorganic or organic compounds of mercury, excluding amalgams. Due to the extreme toxicity of mercury and its compounds, international trade in these substances is highly regulated and has significantly declined following global environmental conventions like the Minamata Convention. Historically, mercury compounds found uses in various applications, including pharmaceuticals, pigments, catalysts, and scientific instruments. Today, their trade is largely restricted to very specific, essential industrial or research purposes where no viable alternatives exist, and under stringent environmental controls. Importers and exporters are typically specialized chemical companies or research institutions operating under strict permits. The global movement of these compounds is meticulously monitored to prevent environmental contamination and protect human health, reflecting a global shift away from mercury-containing products.
What products fall under HS code 285210?
Mercuric chloride, Mercuric oxide, Mercurous chloride (calomel), Methylmercury chloride, Phenylmercury acetate, Mercury(II) sulfide
What are common misclassifications for HS code 285210?
This code is for chemically defined mercury compounds. It's distinct from 285290 (not chemically defined) and amalgams (285390). Elemental mercury is under 280540.
How is HS code 285210 structured?
HS code 285210 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (28) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (52) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.