HS Code Subheading

Colouring matter; inorganic products of a kind used as luminophores

3206.50 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 320650

This HS code covers inorganic products used as luminophores, commonly known as phosphors. These materials have the unique ability to emit light when excited by various energy sources (e.g., UV light, electron beams). They are critical components in a wide array of modern technologies, including LED lighting, fluorescent lamps, display screens (LCD, OLED), security inks, and glow-in-the-dark products. International trade in luminophores is dominated by specialized chemical companies and advanced material manufacturers. Importers are typically electronics manufacturers, lighting companies, and security printing firms, while exporters are often nations with strong R&D capabilities in materials science and advanced chemical production. The market is highly specialized and technology-driven.

Products Under This Code

Zinc sulfide phosphors, strontium aluminate phosphors, yttrium oxide phosphors, rare earth phosphors, glow-in-the-dark pigments, UV-fluorescent pigments, LED phosphors

Real World Examples

Nichia Phosphors, Intematix Phosphors, Merck KGaA Lumogen, Osram Sylvania Phosphors, Phosphor Technology Ltd.

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with other inorganic pigments (3206.4x) if their luminescent property is overlooked, or with fluorescent dyes (3204.20) which are organic compounds.

Products Classified Under 3206.50

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Japan, South Korea, and China are major players in the production and export of luminophores, driven by the electronics and lighting industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 320650?

HS code 320650 covers: Colouring matter; inorganic products of a kind used as luminophores. This HS code covers inorganic products used as luminophores, commonly known as phosphors. These materials have the unique ability to emit light when excited by various energy sources (e.g., UV light, electron beams). They are critical components in a wide array of modern technologies, including LED lighting, fluorescent lamps, display screens (LCD, OLED), security inks, and glow-in-the-dark products. International trade in luminophores is dominated by specialized chemical companies and advanced material manufacturers. Importers are typically electronics manufacturers, lighting companies, and security printing firms, while exporters are often nations with strong R&D capabilities in materials science and advanced chemical production. The market is highly specialized and technology-driven.

What products fall under HS code 320650?

Zinc sulfide phosphors, strontium aluminate phosphors, yttrium oxide phosphors, rare earth phosphors, glow-in-the-dark pigments, UV-fluorescent pigments, LED phosphors

What are common misclassifications for HS code 320650?

Can be confused with other inorganic pigments (3206.4x) if their luminescent property is overlooked, or with fluorescent dyes (3204.20) which are organic compounds.

How is HS code 320650 structured?

HS code 320650 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (32) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (06) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (50) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.