Product classification
HS code for Basic dye: 3204.13
Dyes, basic dyes and preparations based thereon.
Classification of basic dye under HS 3204.13
Basic dyes are classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 320413. This specific subheading is defined as "Dyes; basic dyes and preparations based thereon." The classification is precise because basic dyes represent a distinct chemical class of synthetic dyes characterized by their cationic nature, which allows them to form ionic bonds with anionic sites on fibers. This chemical specificity and the explicit mention in the HS nomenclature make 320413 the correct classification for basic dyes and any preparations primarily composed of them.
- Covers
- Cationic dyes
- Basic Violet 1 (Methyl Violet)
- Basic Red 1 (Rhodamine 6G)
- Basic Blue 9 (Methylene Blue)
- Basic Yellow 2 (Auramine O)
- Preparations containing basic dyes for textile, paper, or leather applications
- Also under 3204.13
- Dystar Astrazon
- Archroma Maxilon
- Atul Basic Dyes
- Ciba Maxilon
Codes often confused with 3204.13
Common mistake. Basic dyes are frequently misclassified with other types of synthetic organic dyes, which are also found within HS 3204. For example, HS 320411 covers disperse dyes, used primarily for polyester and acetate fibers, which have a different chemical structure and application method. HS 320412 is for acid dyes, which are anionic and used for protein fibers like wool and silk. HS 320414 covers direct dyes, and HS 320415 covers vat dyes. The key to correct classification lies in identifying the specific chemical class of the dye, as each type has distinct properties and applications that correspond to a unique HS subheading.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320413 (the code used for basic dye), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320413 (the code used for basic dye) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 35% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 9.6% 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 320413, not only basic dye.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $80M 35% of world exports
- 2 China $40M 17% of world exports
- 3 Germany $15M 6.5% of world exports
World total: $230M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $25M 9.6% of world imports
- 2 China $20M 7.7% of world imports
- 3 Germany $19M 7.3% of world imports
World total: $258M 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 basic dye
Brazil classifies basic dye under NCM 3204.13.00: HS 3204.13 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about basic dye
What is the HS code for Basic dye?
The HS code for Basic dye is 320413 (Dyes; basic dyes and preparations based thereon). The HS code for basic dyes is 320413, which specifically covers basic dyes and preparations based thereon.
How do I classify Basic dye for customs?
Basic dye is classified under HS code 320413 — Dyes; basic dyes and preparations based thereon. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
How are different types of dyes distinguished in the HS nomenclature?
Different types of dyes are distinguished in the HS nomenclature primarily by their chemical structure, chromophore type, and application properties. Each major class of synthetic organic dye, such as basic, acid, disperse, direct, or vat dyes, is assigned a specific subheading within HS 3204 to ensure precise classification based on their chemical identity and intended use.
Which countries are the top exporters of basic dye (HS 320413)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320413 (the code used for basic dye) in UN Comtrade data were India ($80M, 35% of world exports), China ($40M) and Germany ($15M). World exports came to about $230M, 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 basic dye (HS 320413)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320413 (the code used for basic dye) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($25M, 9.6% of world imports), China ($20M) and Germany ($19M). World imports came to about $258M, 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 Basic dye the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320413 for Basic 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 basic dye in Brazil?
In Brazil, basic dye (HS 320413) is classified under NCM 3204.13.00.