HS Code Subheading

Carbon; activated

3802.10 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 380210

Activated carbon is a highly porous material with an extensive internal surface area, making it exceptionally effective for adsorption. This HS code covers its international trade, which is vital for numerous purification and filtration applications across industries. Importers include water treatment plants, air purification system manufacturers, food and beverage processors, pharmaceutical companies, and mining operations. Exporters are typically countries with abundant raw materials (wood, coal, coconut shells) and advanced processing capabilities to activate carbon. The global demand for activated carbon is consistently high, driven by increasing environmental regulations, industrial filtration needs, and consumer demand for cleaner air and water, making it a critical commodity for public health and industrial efficiency.

Products Under This Code

Granular activated carbon (GAC), powdered activated carbon (PAC), activated carbon pellets, activated carbon cloth, impregnated activated carbon, coconut shell activated carbon, wood-based activated carbon, coal-based activated carbon

Real World Examples

Calgon Carbon granular activated carbon, Jacobi Carbons powdered activated carbon, Kuraray activated carbon, Cabot Norit activated carbon, Evoqua Water Technologies activated carbon

Common Misclassification

This is distinct from other forms of carbon like graphite (3801) or carbon black (2803) due to its specific activation process and primary function as an adsorbent for purification.

Products Classified Under 3802.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, India, and the USA are major producers and exporters, while Europe, Japan, and other industrialized nations are significant importers of activated carbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 380210?

HS code 380210 covers: Carbon; activated. Activated carbon is a highly porous material with an extensive internal surface area, making it exceptionally effective for adsorption. This HS code covers its international trade, which is vital for numerous purification and filtration applications across industries. Importers include water treatment plants, air purification system manufacturers, food and beverage processors, pharmaceutical companies, and mining operations. Exporters are typically countries with abundant raw materials (wood, coal, coconut shells) and advanced processing capabilities to activate carbon. The global demand for activated carbon is consistently high, driven by increasing environmental regulations, industrial filtration needs, and consumer demand for cleaner air and water, making it a critical commodity for public health and industrial efficiency.

What products fall under HS code 380210?

Granular activated carbon (GAC), powdered activated carbon (PAC), activated carbon pellets, activated carbon cloth, impregnated activated carbon, coconut shell activated carbon, wood-based activated carbon, coal-based activated carbon

What are common misclassifications for HS code 380210?

This is distinct from other forms of carbon like graphite (3801) or carbon black (2803) due to its specific activation process and primary function as an adsorbent for purification.

How is HS code 380210 structured?

HS code 380210 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (38) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.