HS code · 4-digit heading
HS Code 36.05 – Matches; other than pyrotechnic articles of heading no. 3604
What HS 36.05 covers
Heading 3605 is dedicated to "Matches; other than pyrotechnic articles of heading no. 3604." This classification specifically covers the common friction-ignited matches used for generating a flame. The scope is relatively narrow but precise, encompassing all forms of matches designed for everyday ignition purposes, such as safety matches, strike-anywhere matches, wooden matches, and matchbooks. The crucial distinction highlighted in the heading is its explicit exclusion of pyrotechnic articles of heading 3604, meaning that match-like igniters designed for fireworks or other pyrotechnic effects are classified elsewhere. While seemingly simple, accurate classification is important for trade compliance, primarily concerning safety in transport and storage due to their flammable nature. Matches are subject to specific packaging and labeling requirements for dangerous goods, although generally less stringent than for explosives or complex pyrotechnics. Misclassification could lead to incorrect safety handling, potential fire hazards during transit, or incorrect tariff application. Historically, match production has been a widespread industry, with trade influenced by cost-efficiency and safety standards. This heading serves as a specific classification for a ubiquitous combustible item within Chapter 36, differentiating it from more complex explosive or pyrotechnic preparations.
- Covers
- Safety matches
- Strike-anywhere matches
- Wooden matches
- Paper matches
- Matchbooks
- Wax matches
- Kitchen matches
- Fireplace matches
- Stormproof matches
- Bulk matches for industrial use
- Restaurant matches
- Promotional matches
- Boxed matches
- Long-stem matches
- Waterproof matches
- Waxed paper matches
- Household matches
- Camping matches
- Matchsticks
- Matchboxes
- Match folders
- Strike plates for matches
- Friction matches
- Book matches.
- Examples
Large quantities of wooden safety matches are exported from India to various African and Middle Eastern markets, transported by ocean freight, serving general consumer and household needs. Promotional matchbooks are frequently manufactured in China and exported globally to the hospitality industry (hotels, restaurants) and advertising agencies, often shipped as general cargo. A Swedish company, a historical leader in match production, exports high-quality kitchen matches to North American and European retail chains, utilizing efficient logistics networks for consumer goods.
Subheadings under 36.05 1
Codes often confused with 36.05
Common mistake. Common misclassification errors involve confusing matches with other igniting devices or pyrotechnic articles. Traders might incorrectly classify matches as pyrotechnic articles (HS 3604), but 3605 is strictly for simple friction matches for general flame generation, not for articles with complex pyrotechnic effects. Another frequent mistake is grouping matches with lighters (HS 9613); however, matches are distinct, single-use friction-ignited devices, whereas lighters are reusable mechanical or gas-powered ignition tools. Lastly, general igniters or squibs (HS 3603) for explosives should not be confused with simple matches, as their purpose and composition are fundamentally different.
Top exporters and importers of HS code 3605, 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS code 3605 in UN Comtrade data was India, with 33% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 8.9% of world imports. The United Kingdom reports $143M of its chapter 36 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $59M 33% of world exports
- 2 Sweden $22M 12% of world exports
- 3 South Africa $16M 8.9% of world exports
World total: $178M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $14M 8.9% of world imports
- 2 Germany $9.4M 5.8% of world imports
- 3 Benin* ~$8.2M 5.1% of world imports · partner records ↗
The United Kingdom reports $143M of its chapter 36 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
World total: $162M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Questions about HS 36.05
What is HS code 3605?
HS code 3605 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Matches; other than pyrotechnic articles of heading no. 3604. Heading 3605 is dedicated to "Matches; other than pyrotechnic articles of heading no. 3604." This classification specifically covers the common friction-ignited matches used for generating a flame. The scope is relatively narrow but precise, encompassing all forms of matches designed for everyday ignition purposes, such as safety matches, strike-anywhere matches, wooden matches, and matchbooks. The crucial distinction highlighted in the heading is its explicit exclusion of pyrotechnic articles of heading 3604, meaning that match-like igniters designed for fireworks or other pyrotechnic effects are classified elsewhere. While seemingly simple, accurate classification is important for trade compliance, primarily concerning safety in transport and storage due to their flammable nature. Matches are subject to specific packaging and labeling requirements for dangerous goods, although generally less stringent than for explosives or complex pyrotechnics. Misclassification could lead to incorrect safety handling, potential fire hazards during transit, or incorrect tariff application. Historically, match production has been a widespread industry, with trade influenced by cost-efficiency and safety standards. This heading serves as a specific classification for a ubiquitous combustible item within Chapter 36, differentiating it from more complex explosive or pyrotechnic preparations.
What products fall under HS code 3605?
Safety matches, Strike-anywhere matches, Wooden matches, Paper matches, Matchbooks, Wax matches, Kitchen matches, Fireplace matches, Stormproof matches, Bulk matches for industrial use, Restaurant matches, Promotional matches, Boxed matches, Long-stem matches, Waterproof matches, Waxed paper matches, Household matches, Camping matches, Matchsticks, Matchboxes, Match folders, Strike plates for matches, Friction matches, Book matches.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 3605?
Common misclassification errors involve confusing matches with other igniting devices or pyrotechnic articles. Traders might incorrectly classify matches as pyrotechnic articles (HS 3604), but 3605 is strictly for simple friction matches for general flame generation, not for articles with complex pyrotechnic effects. Another frequent mistake is grouping matches with lighters (HS 9613); however, matches are distinct, single-use friction-ignited devices, whereas lighters are reusable mechanical or gas-powered ignition tools. Lastly, general igniters or squibs (HS 3603) for explosives should not be confused with simple matches, as their purpose and composition are fundamentally different.
Which countries are the top exporters of goods under HS code 3605?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 3605 in UN Comtrade data were India ($59M, 33% of world exports), Sweden ($22M) and South Africa ($16M). World exports came to about $178M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of goods under HS code 3605?
In 2025, the top importers of HS code 3605 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($14M, 8.9% of world imports), Germany ($9.4M) and Benin (about $8.2M). World imports came to about $162M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). The United Kingdom reports $143M of its chapter 36 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
How is HS code 3605 structured?
HS code 3605 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 36 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (36) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (05) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.