HS Code for Ammonium thiosulphate

Ammonium thiosulphate, with the chemical formula (NH4)2S2O3, is classified under HS code 2832.30. Heading 2832 is specifically allocated for sulphites, thiosulphates, and their related salts. Within this heading, the nomenclature provides a specific subheading, 2832.30, for all thiosulphates. This classification is straightforward as it is based on the specific anionic group (thiosulphate) present in the compound. Ammonium thiosulphate is commonly produced as a solution or in crystalline form. It is a significant industrial chemical used primarily in photographic fixing agents to dissolve silver halides from film and paper. Additionally, it is used in gold leaching processes and as a specialized fertilizer additive. While it contains nitrogen and sulfur, its primary chemical identity as a thiosulphate salt dictates its placement in Chapter 28 rather than Chapter 31, unless it is specifically formulated and packaged as a fertilizer. The clarity of the 2832.30 subheading reduces the likelihood of classification errors compared to more generic \"other\" categories, provided the chemical purity meets the standards for Chapter 28. The classification remains consistent whether the product is in solid form or in an aqueous solution, provided no other substances have been added to change its character.

Products Included

• Ammonium thiosulphate (ATS) crystals
• Ammonium thiosulphate liquid solutions (60% typical)
• Photographic grade ammonium thiosulphate
• Technical grade ammonium thiosulphate
• Ammonium hyposulphite

Common Misclassification

Ammonium thiosulphate is sometimes misclassified under HS code 2833.29, which covers other sulphates. However, thiosulphates (S2O3) are chemically distinct from sulphates (SO4) and have their own dedicated subheading in 2832.30. Another common error is classification under 3102.80 (mixtures of urea and ammonium nitrate) or 3105.90 when used in agriculture. Unless the product is a prepared fertilizer mixture or packaged for retail sale as a fertilizer, the pure chemical or its simple aqueous solution must be classified under 2832.30.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Ammonium thiosulphate?

The HS code for ammonium thiosulphate is 2832.30, which is the specific code for thiosulphates.

Why is ammonium thiosulphate used in photography?

It acts as a \"fixer,\" which means it removes unexposed silver halide from the photographic emulsion, making the image permanent and insensitive to further light exposure.