Product classification
HS code for Acid dye: 3204.12
Dyes, acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon.
Classification of acid dye under HS 3204.12
Acid dyes are classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 320412 due to their specific chemical properties and application in the dyeing industry. HS Chapter 32 is dedicated to tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins and their derivatives, dyes, pigments, and other coloring matter. This chapter provides a comprehensive framework for classifying substances primarily used for imparting color. Within this framework, Heading 3204 specifically addresses synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined, and preparations based thereon. Subheading 3204.12 is precisely designated for "Dyes; acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon." Acid dyes are characterized by their anionic nature and are typically applied to protein fibers (like wool and silk) and nylon from an acidic dye bath. This direct and explicit description within the HS nomenclature ensures accurate and consistent classification for these important industrial colorants.
- Covers
- Acid Red 1 (e.g., C.I. Acid Red 1)
- Acid Blue 9 (e.g., C.I. Acid Blue 9)
- Acid Yellow 36 (e.g., C.I. Acid Yellow 36)
- Premetallised acid dyes
- Mordant dyes
- Preparations based on acid dyes
- Also under 3204.12
- Dystar Telon
- Archroma Nylosan
- Huntsman Erionyl
- Ciba Tectilon
Codes often confused with 3204.12
Common mistake. Misclassification of acid dyes often occurs with other types of synthetic organic dyes due to their shared function of imparting color. For instance, acid dyes might be confused with disperse dyes, which are classified under HS 3204.11. Disperse dyes are non-ionic and primarily used for dyeing hydrophobic synthetic fibers such as polyester and acetate, requiring different application methods and chemical affinities compared to acid dyes. Another common point of confusion is with basic dyes, found under HS 3204.13. Basic dyes are cationic and are predominantly used for acrylic fibers, forming strong ionic bonds. Distinguishing between these subheadings requires careful consideration of the dye's chemical class, ionic nature, and intended application on specific fiber types.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320412 (the code used for acid dye), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320412 (the code used for acid dye) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 320412, not only acid dye.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $222M 29% of world exports
- 2 China $68M 8.9% of world exports
- 3 Germany $61M 8.1% of world exports
World total: $760M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $118M 14% of world imports
- 2 Italy $70M 8.2% of world imports
- 3 United States $61M 7.1% of world imports
World total: $849M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for acid dye
Brazil splits HS 3204.12 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 3204.12.10Acid dyes, premetallised or not, and preparations
- 3204.12.20Mordant dyes and preparations based thereon
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about acid dye
What is the HS code for Acid dye?
The HS code for Acid dye is 320412 (Dyes; acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon). The Harmonized System (HS) code for Acid dye is 320412. This code specifically covers acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon, as well as mordant dyes.
How do I classify Acid dye for customs?
Acid dye is classified under HS code 320412 — Dyes; acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
How do acid dyes differ from direct dyes?
Acid dyes and direct dyes both belong to the class of anionic dyes, but they differ in their application and fiber affinity. Acid dyes typically require an acidic dye bath and are primarily used for protein fibers (wool, silk) and nylon, forming ionic bonds. Direct dyes, on the other hand, are applied in a neutral or slightly alkaline bath and are mainly used for cellulosic fibers (cotton, linen), forming hydrogen bonds. Direct dyes generally have lower wet fastness properties compared to acid dyes.
Which countries are the top exporters of acid dye (HS 320412)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320412 (the code used for acid dye) in UN Comtrade data were India ($222M, 29% of world exports), China ($68M) and Germany ($61M). World exports came to about $760M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of acid dye (HS 320412)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320412 (the code used for acid dye) in UN Comtrade data were China ($118M, 14% of world imports), Italy ($70M) and the United States ($61M). World imports came to about $849M, 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.
Is the HS code for Acid dye the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320412 for Acid dye is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for acid dye in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 320412 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for acid dye depends on the product's details: 3204.12.10 (Acid dyes, premetallised or not, and preparations), 3204.12.20 (Mordant dyes and preparations based thereon).