HS Code Subheading

Fertilizers, mineral or chemical; containing the three fertilizing elements nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium

3105.20 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 310520

This HS code covers mineral or chemical fertilizers that contain all three primary fertilizing elements: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Known as NPK fertilizers, these are fundamental to modern agriculture, providing a balanced nutrient supply essential for complete plant growth, from root development to flowering and fruiting. The specific ratios of NPK vary widely, tailored to different crops, soil types, and growth stages. Global trade is robust, with major agricultural nations both producing and consuming vast quantities to ensure food security and maximize crop yields. Exporters often include countries with significant fertilizer production capacities, such as China, the United States, and Russia, while importers span nearly every agricultural region, particularly Brazil, India, and Southeast Asia. The complexity of formulations and the global demand make this a high-volume, strategically important trade category.

Products Under This Code

NPK granular fertilizer, balanced NPK blends, slow-release NPK pellets, water-soluble NPK formulations, specialty NPK for specific crops, liquid NPK concentrates

Real World Examples

YaraMila, Haifa Multi-K, Grow More NPK, Compo Expert NovaTec, Nutrien NPK blends

Common Misclassification

Often confused with fertilizers containing only two elements (e.g., 310559 for N+P or 310560 for P+K) if the presence of all three primary nutrients is not clearly declared or quantified. It's crucial to verify the NPK content.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.

Products Classified Under 3105.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, India, Brazil, and the United States are among the largest producers and consumers of NPK fertilizers globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 310520?

HS code 310520 covers: Fertilizers, mineral or chemical; containing the three fertilizing elements nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. This HS code covers mineral or chemical fertilizers that contain all three primary fertilizing elements: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Known as NPK fertilizers, these are fundamental to modern agriculture, providing a balanced nutrient supply essential for complete plant growth, from root development to flowering and fruiting. The specific ratios of NPK vary widely, tailored to different crops, soil types, and growth stages. Global trade is robust, with major agricultural nations both producing and consuming vast quantities to ensure food security and maximize crop yields. Exporters often include countries with significant fertilizer production capacities, such as China, the United States, and Russia, while importers span nearly every agricultural region, particularly Brazil, India, and Southeast Asia. The complexity of formulations and the global demand make this a high-volume, strategically important trade category.

What products fall under HS code 310520?

NPK granular fertilizer, balanced NPK blends, slow-release NPK pellets, water-soluble NPK formulations, specialty NPK for specific crops, liquid NPK concentrates

What are common misclassifications for HS code 310520?

Often confused with fertilizers containing only two elements (e.g., 310559 for N+P or 310560 for P+K) if the presence of all three primary nutrients is not clearly declared or quantified. It's crucial to verify the NPK content.

How is HS code 310520 structured?

HS code 310520 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (31) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.