HS Code Subheading

Beryllium and articles thereof; unwrought beryllium, powders

8112.12 Subheading
Section XV — Base metals and articles of base metal

About HS Code 811212

This HS code covers unwrought beryllium and beryllium powders, materials highly valued for their unique properties: extreme lightness, stiffness, high thermal conductivity, and transparency to X-rays. These characteristics make beryllium indispensable in specialized high-tech industries, including aerospace, defense, nuclear energy, and medical imaging. Major importers are technologically advanced nations like the United States, Japan, and European countries, which have sophisticated manufacturing capabilities for these applications but limited domestic beryllium sources. Exporters are typically countries with significant beryllium mining and processing operations, such as the United States (from its own mines and processing imported ore) and Kazakhstan. Key considerations in this trade include the strategic nature of the material, strict safety regulations due to its toxicity, and the high cost associated with its extraction and processing. The market is relatively niche but critical for cutting-edge technologies.

Products Under This Code

Unwrought beryllium, Beryllium powder, Beryllium ingots, Beryllium flakes, Beryllium granules, Beryllium billets

Real World Examples

Materion Beryllium, Ulba Metallurgical Plant beryllium, Kazatomprom beryllium products

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct from wrought beryllium (811219) and beryllium waste/scrap (811213), which cover processed forms and recycled material respectively. Confusion can arise if the form (unwrought vs. wrought) is not precisely identified.

Products Classified Under 8112.12

Industry

This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.

Trade Overview

The United States and Japan are significant importers, while the United States and Kazakhstan are key producers and exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 811212?

HS code 811212 covers: Beryllium and articles thereof; unwrought beryllium, powders. This HS code covers unwrought beryllium and beryllium powders, materials highly valued for their unique properties: extreme lightness, stiffness, high thermal conductivity, and transparency to X-rays. These characteristics make beryllium indispensable in specialized high-tech industries, including aerospace, defense, nuclear energy, and medical imaging. Major importers are technologically advanced nations like the United States, Japan, and European countries, which have sophisticated manufacturing capabilities for these applications but limited domestic beryllium sources. Exporters are typically countries with significant beryllium mining and processing operations, such as the United States (from its own mines and processing imported ore) and Kazakhstan. Key considerations in this trade include the strategic nature of the material, strict safety regulations due to its toxicity, and the high cost associated with its extraction and processing. The market is relatively niche but critical for cutting-edge technologies.

What products fall under HS code 811212?

Unwrought beryllium, Beryllium powder, Beryllium ingots, Beryllium flakes, Beryllium granules, Beryllium billets

What are common misclassifications for HS code 811212?

This code is distinct from wrought beryllium (811219) and beryllium waste/scrap (811213), which cover processed forms and recycled material respectively. Confusion can arise if the form (unwrought vs. wrought) is not precisely identified.

How is HS code 811212 structured?

HS code 811212 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (81) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.