HS Code Subheading

Inorganic or organic compounds of mercury; excluding amalgams, not chemically defined,

2852.90 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 285290

This HS code pertains to inorganic or organic compounds of mercury that are not chemically defined, excluding amalgams. This category typically includes mixtures, impure forms, or residues containing mercury compounds where the exact chemical composition is not precisely known or consistent. Given the severe environmental and health risks associated with mercury, trade in these 'not chemically defined' compounds is even more stringently controlled and minimal compared to their chemically defined counterparts. Such materials are often by-products or waste streams from industrial processes that historically used mercury. International movement is primarily for specialized waste management, recycling, or safe disposal, rather than for direct industrial application. Exporters and importers are usually highly specialized waste treatment facilities or companies operating under strict international and national environmental regulations, with a strong emphasis on containment and responsible handling.

Products Under This Code

Mercury-containing waste mixtures, Undefined mercury salt mixtures, Mercury-contaminated industrial residues, Spent mercury catalysts (undefined)

Real World Examples

Industrial by-products containing mercury compounds, specific mercury-containing catalysts that are not pure, mercury-contaminated soil for remediation

Common Misclassification

This is for *not chemically defined* mercury compounds, distinguishing it from 285210 (chemically defined). Elemental mercury is 280540, and amalgams are 285390.

Products Classified Under 2852.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Due to severe restrictions, international trade is very limited, primarily involving specialized waste management companies for disposal or recycling, often within regional blocs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 285290?

HS code 285290 covers: Inorganic or organic compounds of mercury; excluding amalgams, not chemically defined,. This HS code pertains to inorganic or organic compounds of mercury that are not chemically defined, excluding amalgams. This category typically includes mixtures, impure forms, or residues containing mercury compounds where the exact chemical composition is not precisely known or consistent. Given the severe environmental and health risks associated with mercury, trade in these 'not chemically defined' compounds is even more stringently controlled and minimal compared to their chemically defined counterparts. Such materials are often by-products or waste streams from industrial processes that historically used mercury. International movement is primarily for specialized waste management, recycling, or safe disposal, rather than for direct industrial application. Exporters and importers are usually highly specialized waste treatment facilities or companies operating under strict international and national environmental regulations, with a strong emphasis on containment and responsible handling.

What products fall under HS code 285290?

Mercury-containing waste mixtures, Undefined mercury salt mixtures, Mercury-contaminated industrial residues, Spent mercury catalysts (undefined)

What are common misclassifications for HS code 285290?

This is for *not chemically defined* mercury compounds, distinguishing it from 285210 (chemically defined). Elemental mercury is 280540, and amalgams are 285390.

How is HS code 285290 structured?

HS code 285290 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 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.