Product classification
HS code for Agglomerated lignite: 2702.20
Lignite, agglomerated, excluding jet.
Classification of agglomerated lignite under HS 2702.20
This HS code specifically covers lignite that has undergone an agglomeration process. Lignite, also known as brown coal, is a soft, brown, combustible sedimentary rock formed from naturally compressed peat. Agglomeration involves compacting fine lignite particles into larger, more durable forms, such as briquettes. This process enhances its calorific value, reduces dust, and improves handling and transportation efficiency, making it a more viable fuel source. The exclusion of "jet" is important, as jet is a compact, black form of lignite used for ornamental purposes and is classified elsewhere due to its specific application and characteristics. The classification hinges on the raw material (lignite) and its physical state (agglomerated).
- Covers
- Lignite briquettes
- Agglomerated brown coal
- Lignite pellets (if made from lignite fines)
- Also under 2702.20
- Lausitz Energie Bergbau AG (LEAG) lignite briquettes
- RWE Power AG lignite briquettes
- various European domestic lignite fuels
Codes often confused with 2702.20
Common mistake. 270210 (Lignite; non-agglomerated): This is the most common point of confusion. The distinction lies solely in whether the lignite has been agglomerated. If the lignite is in its natural, non-agglomerated state (e.g., run-of-mine lignite or lignite fines), it falls under 270210. Misclassification can occur if the physical form is not accurately assessed. 2701 (Coal; other than lignite): This chapter covers other types of coal, such as anthracite and bituminous coal. Lignite (2702) is distinct due to its lower carbon content and calorific value. Agglomerated products of other coals would fall under different codes within 2701, such as 270119 for other agglomerated coal.
Top exporters and importers of HS 270220 (the code used for agglomerated lignite), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 270220 (the code used for agglomerated lignite) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 86% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Czechia, with 34% 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 270220, not only agglomerated lignite.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $35M 86% of world exports
- 2 Türkiye $1.7M 4.3% of world exports
- 3 United States $1.2M 3.0% of world exports
World total: $41M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Czechia $9.2M 34% of world imports
- 2 Slovakia $5.2M 19% of world imports
- 3 Austria $2.5M 9.2% of world imports
World total: $27M 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 code for agglomerated lignite
Brazil classifies agglomerated lignite under NCM 2702.20.00: HS 2702.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about agglomerated lignite
What is the HS code for Agglomerated lignite?
The HS code for Agglomerated lignite is 270220 (Lignite; agglomerated, excluding jet). The Harmonized System (HS) code for agglomerated lignite is 270220. This code specifically applies to lignite that has been processed into consolidated forms, such as briquettes, excluding the ornamental variety known as jet.
How do I classify Agglomerated lignite for customs?
Agglomerated lignite is classified under HS code 270220 — Lignite; agglomerated, excluding jet. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the purpose of agglomerating lignite?
Agglomerating lignite serves to improve its quality as a fuel. It increases the density and calorific value of the lignite, reduces moisture content, minimizes dust during handling, and creates a more uniform and efficient fuel product suitable for industrial and domestic combustion.
Which countries are the top exporters of agglomerated lignite (HS 270220)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 270220 (the code used for agglomerated lignite) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($35M, 86% of world exports), Türkiye ($1.7M) and the United States ($1.2M). World exports came to about $41M, 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 agglomerated lignite (HS 270220)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 270220 (the code used for agglomerated lignite) in UN Comtrade data were Czechia ($9.2M, 34% of world imports), Slovakia ($5.2M) and Austria ($2.5M). World imports came to about $27M, 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 Agglomerated lignite the same in all countries?
The base HS code 270220 for Agglomerated lignite 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 agglomerated lignite in Brazil?
In Brazil, agglomerated lignite (HS 270220) is classified under NCM 2702.20.00.