About HS Code 811221
This HS code covers unwrought chromium and chromium powders, which are fundamental forms of this versatile metal in international trade. Chromium is highly valued for its hardness, corrosion resistance, and high melting point, making it essential in various industries. Unwrought chromium is primarily used in the production of specialized alloys, particularly stainless steel, where it imparts its characteristic corrosion resistance. Chromium powders find applications in thermal spraying, welding electrodes, and advanced ceramics. Major importers are countries with robust steel industries and advanced manufacturing sectors, such as China, India, Japan, and European nations. Exporters typically include countries rich in chromite ore, like South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, which process the ore into unwrought metal or powder. Key aspects of this trade include the strategic importance of chromium for industrial development, price fluctuations driven by global steel demand, and the energy-intensive nature of its production.
Products Under This Code
Unwrought chromium, Chromium powder, Chromium briquettes, Chromium pellets, Electrolytic chromium metal, High-purity chromium
Real World Examples
Glencore's ferrochrome products (though this is unwrought chromium, not ferrochrome), Samancor Chrome's chromium metal, Outokumpu's chromium raw materials
Common Misclassification
This code is for unwrought chromium and powders, distinct from ferro-chromium (720241-720249) which is an alloy of iron and chromium. It also differs from wrought chromium (811229) and waste/scrap (811222).
Products Classified Under 8112.21
Industry
This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.
Trade Overview
China, India, and Japan are major importers, while South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey are leading exporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 811221?
HS code 811221 covers: Chromium and articles thereof; unwrought chromium, powders. This HS code covers unwrought chromium and chromium powders, which are fundamental forms of this versatile metal in international trade. Chromium is highly valued for its hardness, corrosion resistance, and high melting point, making it essential in various industries. Unwrought chromium is primarily used in the production of specialized alloys, particularly stainless steel, where it imparts its characteristic corrosion resistance. Chromium powders find applications in thermal spraying, welding electrodes, and advanced ceramics. Major importers are countries with robust steel industries and advanced manufacturing sectors, such as China, India, Japan, and European nations. Exporters typically include countries rich in chromite ore, like South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, which process the ore into unwrought metal or powder. Key aspects of this trade include the strategic importance of chromium for industrial development, price fluctuations driven by global steel demand, and the energy-intensive nature of its production.
What products fall under HS code 811221?
Unwrought chromium, Chromium powder, Chromium briquettes, Chromium pellets, Electrolytic chromium metal, High-purity chromium
What are common misclassifications for HS code 811221?
This code is for unwrought chromium and powders, distinct from ferro-chromium (720241-720249) which is an alloy of iron and chromium. It also differs from wrought chromium (811229) and waste/scrap (811222).
How is HS code 811221 structured?
HS code 811221 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 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.