Minerals & Fuels Industry Classification Guide (HS System)

This guide outlines the Harmonized System (HS) classification for products in the "Minerals & Fuels" industry, covering HS Chapters 25, 26, and 27. Accurate classification is vital for customs compliance and trade.

Overview

Products within the Minerals & Fuels industry are fundamentally classified based on their natural state, chemical composition, and degree of processing. The HS system meticulously categorizes these goods, starting from raw, unworked minerals and ores, through to refined mineral fuels and their derivatives. Classification often hinges on specific gravity, purity levels, and whether the product is in its primary form or has undergone significant transformation. This industry encompasses essential raw materials for construction, manufacturing, and energy production, making precise classification vital for global supply chains.

Key HS Chapters

The core of the Minerals & Fuels industry is covered by the following HS Chapters:

• Chapter 25: Salt, sulphur, earths and stone, plastering materials, lime and cement

  This chapter covers non-metallic minerals such as common salt, sulphur, various earths (e.g., clays, kaolin), natural sands, granite, marble, limestone, and construction materials like cement and plaster. Classification depends on the mineral type, form, and intended use.

• Chapter 26: Ores, slag and ash

  Chapter 26 is dedicated to metallic ores and concentrates, as well as slag, dross, and ash from metallurgical processes. This includes iron ores, copper ores, nickel ores, bauxite, and other base metal ores. Classification is typically based on the predominant metal content and whether the product is an ore, concentrate, or a waste product from metal extraction.

• Chapter 27: Mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation; bituminous substances; mineral waxes

  This critical chapter covers energy products: coal, lignite, peat, crude petroleum, natural gas, petroleum gases, and refined products like gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and lubricating oils. Bituminous mixtures and mineral waxes are also included. Classification relies heavily on chemical composition, distillation ranges, and specific gravity.

Popular Products

Here are 10 commonly traded products within the Minerals & Fuels industry:

• Crude Petroleum
• Natural Gas
• Coal
• Iron Ore
• Cement
• Common Salt
• Gasoline (Petrol)
• Diesel Fuel
• Copper Ore
• Bitumen

Classification Tips

Accurate classification in the Minerals & Fuels sector requires careful attention

Chapters Covered

• Chapter 25 Salt; sulphur; earths, stone; plastering materials, lime and cement
• Chapter 26 Ores, slag and ash
• Chapter 27 Mineral fuels, mineral oils and products of their distillation; bituminous substances; mineral waxes

Frequently Asked Questions