About HS Code 320290
This broad category encompasses inorganic tanning substances, primarily chromium salts, and various tanning preparations, including enzymatic solutions for pre-tanning. Chromium tanning is widely used for its speed, versatility, and ability to produce soft, durable leather with excellent physical properties, making it a cornerstone of the global leather industry. Trade involves the supply of these specialized chemicals from industrial producers to tanneries worldwide. The environmental impact of chromium and the development of chrome-free alternatives are significant factors influencing trade and innovation in this sector, alongside the demand for efficient enzymatic preparations that optimize the pre-tanning stages, improving hide preparation and reducing processing times. This code also includes other inorganic tanning agents like aluminum and zirconium salts.
Products Under This Code
Basic chromium sulfate, Chrome tanning salts, Aluminum sulfate (for tanning), Zirconium sulfate (for tanning), Enzymatic deliming agents, Protease enzymes for leather, Tanning auxiliaries, Chrome-free inorganic tanning agents
Real World Examples
Lanxess Chromosal, BASF Basyntan (some inorganic types), Stahl EasyWhite (some inorganic types), Buckman Enzymatic Preparations
Common Misclassification
Often confused with synthetic organic tanning substances (320210) due to both being chemical agents, but this code specifically covers inorganic substances and complex tanning preparations, including enzymatic ones.
Products Classified Under 3202.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, India, and Germany are major producers and exporters of these substances, with Italy, China, and Brazil being top importers for their leather industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 320290?
HS code 320290 covers: Tanning substances; inorganic tanning substances; tanning preparations, whether or not containing natural tanning substances; enzymatic preparations for pre- tanning. This broad category encompasses inorganic tanning substances, primarily chromium salts, and various tanning preparations, including enzymatic solutions for pre-tanning. Chromium tanning is widely used for its speed, versatility, and ability to produce soft, durable leather with excellent physical properties, making it a cornerstone of the global leather industry. Trade involves the supply of these specialized chemicals from industrial producers to tanneries worldwide. The environmental impact of chromium and the development of chrome-free alternatives are significant factors influencing trade and innovation in this sector, alongside the demand for efficient enzymatic preparations that optimize the pre-tanning stages, improving hide preparation and reducing processing times. This code also includes other inorganic tanning agents like aluminum and zirconium salts.
What products fall under HS code 320290?
Basic chromium sulfate, Chrome tanning salts, Aluminum sulfate (for tanning), Zirconium sulfate (for tanning), Enzymatic deliming agents, Protease enzymes for leather, Tanning auxiliaries, Chrome-free inorganic tanning agents
What are common misclassifications for HS code 320290?
Often confused with synthetic organic tanning substances (320210) due to both being chemical agents, but this code specifically covers inorganic substances and complex tanning preparations, including enzymatic ones.
How is HS code 320290 structured?
HS code 320290 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (32) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.