HS Code Subheading

Base metals or silver; clad with gold, not further worked than semi-manufactured

7109.00 Subheading
Section XIV — Natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metals clad with precious metal and articles thereof; imitation jewellery; coin

About HS Code 710900

This HS code identifies materials where a base metal (such as copper or nickel) or silver has a layer of gold bonded to its surface, but the product is not yet a finished good. These are crucial intermediate materials in international trade, serving industries that require gold's unique properties like excellent electrical conductivity, superior corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, without the prohibitive cost of solid gold. Major importers are typically manufacturers in the electronics, jewelry, and decorative item sectors, seeking cost-effective solutions for high-performance components. Exporters are often countries with sophisticated metallurgical industries or those involved in the refining and processing of precious metals. Key considerations in this trade include the thickness and purity of the gold cladding, as well as the specific properties of the underlying base metal, which collectively determine the material's suitability for various end-uses. The "semi-manufactured" aspect means these goods are traded in forms like sheets, wire, or tubes, ready for further fabrication.

Products Under This Code

Gold-clad copper wire, Gold-clad silver sheet, Gold-clad brass strip, Gold-clad nickel tubing, Gold-clad electrical contacts, Gold-clad jewelry blanks, Gold-clad watch components

Real World Examples

CooksonGold gold-filled wire, Hoover & Strong gold-clad sheet, Umicore gold-clad contacts, Heraeus gold-clad materials

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with 7108 (gold, unwrought or semi-manufactured) if the cladding is very thick, or 7113 (jewelry of precious metal) if the items are mistaken for finished jewelry components. The key distinction lies in the 'clad' nature and 'not further worked than semi-manufactured' status.

Products Classified Under 7109.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Gems & Jewelry industry.

Trade Overview

Major importers include Switzerland, China, and India, while top exporters are often Germany, the USA, and Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 710900?

HS code 710900 covers: Base metals or silver; clad with gold, not further worked than semi-manufactured. This HS code identifies materials where a base metal (such as copper or nickel) or silver has a layer of gold bonded to its surface, but the product is not yet a finished good. These are crucial intermediate materials in international trade, serving industries that require gold's unique properties like excellent electrical conductivity, superior corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, without the prohibitive cost of solid gold. Major importers are typically manufacturers in the electronics, jewelry, and decorative item sectors, seeking cost-effective solutions for high-performance components. Exporters are often countries with sophisticated metallurgical industries or those involved in the refining and processing of precious metals. Key considerations in this trade include the thickness and purity of the gold cladding, as well as the specific properties of the underlying base metal, which collectively determine the material's suitability for various end-uses. The "semi-manufactured" aspect means these goods are traded in forms like sheets, wire, or tubes, ready for further fabrication.

What products fall under HS code 710900?

Gold-clad copper wire, Gold-clad silver sheet, Gold-clad brass strip, Gold-clad nickel tubing, Gold-clad electrical contacts, Gold-clad jewelry blanks, Gold-clad watch components

What are common misclassifications for HS code 710900?

This code can be confused with 7108 (gold, unwrought or semi-manufactured) if the cladding is very thick, or 7113 (jewelry of precious metal) if the items are mistaken for finished jewelry components. The key distinction lies in the 'clad' nature and 'not further worked than semi-manufactured' status.

How is HS code 710900 structured?

HS code 710900 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (71) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (09) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.