HS Code for Ammonium alum

Ammonium alum, chemically known as ammonium aluminum sulfate, is classified under HS code 2833.30. This code is specifically reserved for "Alums." Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System deals with inorganic chemicals, precious metals, and rare-earth metals. Alums are a distinct class of double sulfates, typically consisting of a monovalent cation, such as ammonium or potassium, and a trivalent metal, such as aluminum, chromium, or iron. Ammonium alum is a white crystalline double sulfate frequently used in water purification, tanning, and as a mordant in the textile dyeing process. The classification under 2833.30 is determined by the chemical structure of the product as a double salt. Under the General Rules of Interpretation, a specific heading for a chemical group like "Alums" takes precedence over more general headings for sulfates. This ensures that double salts are not confused with simple single salts. The product is often traded in its dodecahydrate form, but the classification remains the same regardless of the degree of hydration, as long as it maintains the chemical identity of an alum.

Products Included

• Ammonium aluminum sulfate
• Ammonium alum crystals
• Ammonium alum powder
• Technical grade ammonium alum
• Dodecahydrate ammonium alum

Common Misclassification

Ammonium alum is frequently misclassified under HS code 2833.22, which is the specific code for aluminum sulfate. While ammonium alum contains aluminum sulfate as part of its double salt structure, it is chemically distinct. It may also be confused with 2833.29, which covers other sulfates. However, because 2833.30 specifically mentions alums, it is the only correct classification for this double salt.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Ammonium alum?

The HS code for ammonium alum is 2833.30, which is the category for all alums.

Can ammonium alum be classified as a fertilizer?

No, while it contains ammonium, ammonium alum is classified as an inorganic chemical under Chapter 28 and not as a fertilizer in Chapter 31.