HS Code Subheading

Dyes; pigments and preparations based thereon

3204.17 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 320417

This category covers a broad range of synthetic organic pigments and their preparations, distinct from dyes because pigments are insoluble and color by dispersion, not by dissolving. They are vital for industries like paints and coatings, plastics, printing inks, and cosmetics, providing color, opacity, and durability. Major importers are countries with robust manufacturing sectors for these end-use products, such as China, the USA, Germany, and Japan. Exporters often come from regions with strong chemical industries, including China, India, Germany, and the USA. Key considerations in this trade include regulatory compliance for heavy metals and other restricted substances (especially for food contact or toy applications), performance requirements like lightfastness and heat stability, and the shift towards high-performance and specialty pigments for demanding applications. The market is influenced by construction, automotive, and packaging industries.

Products Under This Code

Phthalocyanine Blue, Quinacridone Red, Diarylide Yellow, Carbon Black (synthetic organic), Perylene Maroon, Azo Pigments, Benzimidazolone Yellow

Real World Examples

BASF Irgalite pigments, Clariant Hostaperm pigments, DIC Dainichiseika pigments, Sun Chemical Sunfast pigments

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with inorganic pigments under 3206 (e.g., titanium dioxide) or even with dyes under 320411-320416 if the distinction between soluble dyes and insoluble pigments is not carefully made.

Products Classified Under 3204.17

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, Germany, the USA, and Japan are key players in the global trade of synthetic organic pigments, both as major producers and consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 320417?

HS code 320417 covers: Dyes; pigments and preparations based thereon. This category covers a broad range of synthetic organic pigments and their preparations, distinct from dyes because pigments are insoluble and color by dispersion, not by dissolving. They are vital for industries like paints and coatings, plastics, printing inks, and cosmetics, providing color, opacity, and durability. Major importers are countries with robust manufacturing sectors for these end-use products, such as China, the USA, Germany, and Japan. Exporters often come from regions with strong chemical industries, including China, India, Germany, and the USA. Key considerations in this trade include regulatory compliance for heavy metals and other restricted substances (especially for food contact or toy applications), performance requirements like lightfastness and heat stability, and the shift towards high-performance and specialty pigments for demanding applications. The market is influenced by construction, automotive, and packaging industries.

What products fall under HS code 320417?

Phthalocyanine Blue, Quinacridone Red, Diarylide Yellow, Carbon Black (synthetic organic), Perylene Maroon, Azo Pigments, Benzimidazolone Yellow

What are common misclassifications for HS code 320417?

This code can be confused with inorganic pigments under 3206 (e.g., titanium dioxide) or even with dyes under 320411-320416 if the distinction between soluble dyes and insoluble pigments is not carefully made.

How is HS code 320417 structured?

HS code 320417 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (32) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (17) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.