Product classification
HS code for Asbestos clothing: 6812.91
Asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite), clothing, clothing accessories, footwear and headgear, whether or not reinforced, not goods of heading 6811 or 6813.
Classification of asbestos clothing under HS 6812.91
HS 681291 is specifically designated for clothing, clothing accessories, footwear, and headgear manufactured from asbestos or mixtures predominantly composed of asbestos. This classification applies whether these articles are reinforced or not, and it explicitly excludes goods falling under headings 6811 (articles of asbestos-cement) or 6813 (friction material). The primary criterion for inclusion under 681291 is the finished article's form as personal protective equipment or apparel, with asbestos as its fundamental material component. This ensures precise categorization of asbestos-based garments, distinguishing them from raw asbestos fibers, semi-finished asbestos products, or other non-apparel asbestos articles. The code reflects the specific end-use application of asbestos in protective wear.
- Covers
- Asbestos gloves
- Asbestos aprons
- Asbestos suits
- Asbestos boots
- Asbestos helmets
- Asbestos hoods
- Asbestos leggings
- Also under 6812.91
Historical fire-fighting gear, industrial protective wear from the mid-20th century (no current brands actively trading)
Codes often confused with 6812.91
Common mistake. Misclassification often occurs with HS 681299, which covers "other articles of asbestos." While 681299 is a general residual category for asbestos products not elsewhere specified, 681291 is specifically for clothing and related items, making it the more appropriate classification when the product is clearly identifiable as apparel. Confusion may also arise with HS 6811, which pertains to articles of asbestos-cement or similar materials, typically construction-related, and HS 6813, which is for asbestos-based friction materials. These codes are distinct in their product scope and intended use, preventing overlap with asbestos clothing. It is crucial to identify the specific form and function of the asbestos article to avoid incorrect classification into broader or unrelated categories.
Top exporters and importers of HS 681291 (the code used for asbestos clothing), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 681291 (the code used for asbestos clothing) in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 44% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 33% 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 681291, not only asbestos clothing.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Italy $40M 44% of world exports
- 2 China $13M 15% of world exports
- 3 United States $12M 14% of world exports
World total: $91M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Italy $24M 33% of world imports
- 2 Denmark $11M 14% of world imports
- 3 Saudi Arabia $6.9M 9.2% of world imports
World total: $74M 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 asbestos clothing
Brazil classifies asbestos clothing under NCM 6812.91.00: HS 6812.91 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about asbestos clothing
What is the HS code for Asbestos clothing?
The HS code for Asbestos clothing is 681291 (Asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite); clothing, clothing accessories, footwear and headgear, whether or not reinforced, not goods of heading 6811 or 6813). The HS code for asbestos clothing is 681291. This code specifically covers finished articles of clothing, clothing accessories, footwear, and headgear that are made from asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos, designed for protective purposes in various industrial environments.
How do I classify Asbestos clothing for customs?
Asbestos clothing is classified under HS code 681291 — Asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos (other than crocidolite); clothing, clothing accessories, footwear and headgear, whether or not reinforced, not goods of heading 6811 or 6813. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What types of asbestos are covered under HS 681291?
HS 681291 covers articles made from asbestos or mixtures with a basis of asbestos, with the specific exclusion of crocidolite. This includes various forms of asbestos such as chrysotile, amosite, and tremolite, when incorporated into the manufacture of protective clothing and accessories.
Which countries are the top exporters of asbestos clothing (HS 681291)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 681291 (the code used for asbestos clothing) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($40M, 44% of world exports), China ($13M) and the United States ($12M). World exports came to about $91M, 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 asbestos clothing (HS 681291)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 681291 (the code used for asbestos clothing) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($24M, 33% of world imports), Denmark ($11M) and Saudi Arabia ($6.9M). World imports came to about $74M, 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 Asbestos clothing the same in all countries?
The base HS code 681291 for Asbestos clothing 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 asbestos clothing in Brazil?
In Brazil, asbestos clothing (HS 681291) is classified under NCM 6812.91.00.