HS Code 74.01 – Copper mattes; cement copper (precipitated copper)

HS code 7401 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Copper mattes; cement copper (precipitated copper). HS Code 7401 encompasses "Copper mattes; cement copper (precipitated copper)," representing the initial, intermediate products in the copper refining process. Copper mattes are crude, high-sulfur mixtures of copper, iron, and sulfur, typically produced by smelting copper concentrates. They are not directly usable but serve as a crucial feedstock for further pyrometallurgical refining to extract purer copper. Cement copper, also known as precipitated copper, is produced through hydrometallurgical processes where copper ions in solution are reduced and deposited as a relatively pure metal powder or spongy mass. Both forms signify an early stage of copper extraction, positioning this heading as foundational for the entire copper industry within international trade. This classification is vital for customs authorities to distinguish these low-purity intermediates from more refined forms of copper, ensuring correct duties, trade statistics, and regulatory compliance. Historically, the trade of these raw materials has been essential for industrializing nations lacking primary copper resources. This heading falls under Chapter 74 (Copper and articles thereof) and Section XV (Base Metals and Articles of Base Metal), establishing its role as the very first step in the supply chain for primary copper products, before any significant refining or alloying. Its boundaries are defined by the unrefined and intermediate nature of the copper content, clearly separating it from unrefined copper (7402) or refined copper (7403).

Copper matte lumps, granulated copper matte, copper matte in powder form, cement copper powder, precipitated copper concentrate, copper precipitates from leaching, leached copper product, copper-rich precipitates, copper sulfide concentrates (if considered matte-like), roasted copper concentrates (if still crude, containing significant sulfur), copper matte bricks, copper matte pellets, hydrometallurgical copper sludge, primary copper precipitates, copper-iron sulfide matte.

A common misclassification involves confusing 7401 with 7402 (Unrefined copper; copper anodes for electrolytic refining) or even 7403 (Refined copper and copper alloys, unwrought). Traders might mistakenly classify blister copper or black copper, which are more processed forms of unrefined copper, under 7401. The distinction lies in the level of processing and purity: 7401 covers the crudest intermediate forms like mattes (sulfide mixtures) and cement copper (precipitated powder), which require significant further refining. Blister copper (7402) is typically 99-99.5% pure, while refined copper (7403) is 99.9% or higher. Misclassifying can lead to incorrect duty rates and regulatory non-compliance, particularly concerning environmental or material sourcing regulations.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7401 in UN Comtrade data were the Philippines ($395M, 25% of world exports), Canada ($276M) and Finland ($228M). World exports came to about $1.6B, 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 7401 in UN Comtrade data were Belgium ($804M, 38% of world imports), South Korea ($409M) and China ($333M). World imports came to about $2.1B, 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 7401 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 74 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (74) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (01) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.