HS Code 68.03 – Slate, worked; and articles of slate or of agglomerated slate

HS code 6803 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Slate, worked; and articles of slate or of agglomerated slate. Heading 6803 is specifically dedicated to worked slate and articles made of slate or agglomerated slate. This distinct classification underscores slate's unique geological properties, including its excellent cleavage, durability, and aesthetic appeal, which set it apart from other natural stones. Unlike headings 6801 and 6802, which generally exclude slate, 6803 provides a comprehensive home for all worked slate products, whether natural or agglomerated. The scope covers a wide range of applications, from traditional roofing and flooring materials to decorative and functional articles like billiard table tops, blackboards, and serving platters. The 'worked' aspect implies that the slate has undergone processes such as cutting, sawing, splitting, drilling, or polishing to achieve its desired form and finish. This specialized classification is crucial for trade compliance, as slate products often have specific quality standards (e.g., for roofing) and market demands. Historically, slate has been a fundamental building material in many regions, valued for its longevity and weather resistance. Its inclusion in Section XIII highlights its role as a processed mineral product, contributing significantly to construction and interior design industries globally, with its distinct characteristics meriting a separate and focused classification.

Slate roofing tiles, slate floor tiles, slate wall cladding panels, slate billiard table tops, slate blackboards, slate serving platters, slate cheese boards, slate coasters, slate hearths, slate window sills, slate shower trays, slate garden paths, slate memorial tablets, agglomerated slate flooring, agglomerated slate wall panels, natural slate paving slabs, slate fireplace surrounds, slate chopping boards, slate garden markers, slate chalkboards, slate table tops, slate landscaping chips (worked), slate garden benches.

The primary misclassification risk for 6803 is confusing it with other natural stone headings like 6801 or 6802. Both 6801 and 6802 explicitly exclude slate (except for specific forms in 6802 like mosaic cubes), making 6803 the default for worked slate products. Traders must confirm the material is indeed slate or agglomerated slate. Products resembling slate but made from other materials (e.g., certain ceramics or composites) would be classified elsewhere. Ensure that the 'worked' aspect is met; raw, unworked slate blocks would typically fall under Chapter 25.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6803 in UN Comtrade data were Spain ($387M, 57% of world exports), China ($148M) and Brazil ($50M). World exports came to about $679M, 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.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 6803 in UN Comtrade data were France ($243M, 35% of world imports), the United Kingdom ($159M) and the United States ($54M). World imports came to about $691M, 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.

HS code 6803 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 68 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (68) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (03) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.