About HS Code 780191
This specific HS code targets unwrought, unrefined lead that contains antimony as its primary alloying element, distinguishing it from other unrefined lead types. This particular composition is often a byproduct of primary lead smelting or a specific blend for subsequent refining processes. Antimony is added to lead to increase its hardness and strength, making this type of lead valuable for specific applications where these properties are desired, even before further refining. Countries with significant lead mining and smelting operations, especially those processing complex ores, are typically the exporters. Importers might be specialized refiners or manufacturers who further process this lead into specific alloys for batteries (especially grid alloys), ammunition, or cable sheathing. The trade in this category is less about direct end-product use and more about intermediate processing within the metallurgical industry.
Products Under This Code
Antimonial lead ingots (unrefined), Lead-antimony alloy pigs (unrefined), Crude lead-antimony blocks, Unrefined lead with antimony content, Primary lead-antimony alloy
Real World Examples
Recycled battery lead alloys (before full refining), specific lead-antimony concentrates from mining operations, crude lead-antimony ingots from primary smelters
Common Misclassification
This code is easily confused with 780199 (unrefined lead without antimony as the principal other element) and 780110 (refined lead). The critical distinction is "unrefined" and "antimony as the principal other element."
Products Classified Under 7801.91
Industry
This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.
Trade Overview
Mexico, Australia, and China are key producers and exporters, with various industrial nations importing for further refining or specialized manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 780191?
HS code 780191 covers: Lead; unwrought, unrefined, containing by weight antimony as the principal other element. This specific HS code targets unwrought, unrefined lead that contains antimony as its primary alloying element, distinguishing it from other unrefined lead types. This particular composition is often a byproduct of primary lead smelting or a specific blend for subsequent refining processes. Antimony is added to lead to increase its hardness and strength, making this type of lead valuable for specific applications where these properties are desired, even before further refining. Countries with significant lead mining and smelting operations, especially those processing complex ores, are typically the exporters. Importers might be specialized refiners or manufacturers who further process this lead into specific alloys for batteries (especially grid alloys), ammunition, or cable sheathing. The trade in this category is less about direct end-product use and more about intermediate processing within the metallurgical industry.
What products fall under HS code 780191?
Antimonial lead ingots (unrefined), Lead-antimony alloy pigs (unrefined), Crude lead-antimony blocks, Unrefined lead with antimony content, Primary lead-antimony alloy
What are common misclassifications for HS code 780191?
This code is easily confused with 780199 (unrefined lead without antimony as the principal other element) and 780110 (refined lead). The critical distinction is "unrefined" and "antimony as the principal other element."
How is HS code 780191 structured?
HS code 780191 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (78) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.