HS Code 68.07 – Asphalt or similar material; articles (e.g. petroleum bitumen or coal tar pitch)

HS code 6807 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Asphalt or similar material; articles (e.g. petroleum bitumen or coal tar pitch). HS Code 6807 is dedicated to asphalt or similar materials, and articles made therefrom, playing a critical role in global infrastructure and construction. This heading encompasses petroleum bitumen, coal tar pitch, and other bituminous mixtures, whether in bulk form or incorporated into finished articles. The scope includes both the raw or semi-processed asphaltic materials used as binders and waterproofing agents, as well as a wide array of manufactured products. Key items range from roofing felts and shingles to paving mixtures and waterproofing membranes. The common thread is the primary composition of asphalt or similar bituminous substances, valued for their adhesive, waterproofing, and durable properties. For trade compliance professionals, accurately classifying products under 6807 is essential to ensure correct duty assessment and adherence to import/export regulations, which can be influenced by environmental and safety standards related to petroleum-derived products. This heading is integral to Chapter 68, which groups articles of non-metallic mineral materials, highlighting the mineral-derived nature of asphalt. Historically, asphalt's use dates back millennia, but its modern application in road construction and roofing has made it a cornerstone of urban and industrial development. Its trade significance is underscored by continuous global demand for infrastructure development and building maintenance.

Petroleum bitumen, coal tar pitch, asphalt roofing shingles, modified bitumen membranes, asphalt road paving mixtures (pre-mixed), asphalt emulsions, waterproofing asphalt coatings, asphalt felt, asphalt mastic, road repair asphalt patching compounds, cold patch asphalt, runway paving asphalt, industrial waterproofing compounds, sealing compounds for joints, asphalt-impregnated fiberboard, asphaltic concrete, cutback asphalt, oxidized bitumen, protective asphalt coatings, asphalt-based joint fillers, asphalt-saturated reinforcing fabrics, asphalt pavement sealants, asphalt-rubber mixtures.

Misclassification under HS 6807 frequently occurs due to its close relationship with raw petroleum residues and other chemical preparations. A common mistake is confusing bulk petroleum bitumen with petroleum residues of HS 2713 (Petroleum coke, petroleum bitumen and other residues of petroleum oils). While petroleum bitumen is mentioned in 2713, 6807 specifically covers asphalt *or similar material* and *articles thereof*, implying a degree of preparation or manufacturing for specific uses (e.g., paving, roofing). Raw coal tar pitch might be confused with HS 2708 (Pitch and pitch coke), but 6807 covers the prepared material and articles. Additionally, some complex waterproofing or sealing compounds might be mistaken for chemical preparations under HS 3214 (Mastics; painters' fillings), but if the primary component and function are asphaltic, 6807 is more appropriate.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6807 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($405M, 16% of world exports), Canada ($396M) and Italy ($315M). World exports came to about $2.6B, 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 6807 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($541M, 21% of world imports), Canada ($379M) and the Netherlands ($129M). World imports came to about $2.6B, 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 6807 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 68 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (68) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (07) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.