Product classification
HS code for Blasting caps: 3603.40
Detonating caps.
Classification of blasting caps under HS 3603.40
Blasting caps are classified under HS code 3603.40, which falls under the category of 'Detonating caps.' Chapter 36 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to explosives, pyrotechnic products, matches, pyrophoric alloys, and certain combustible preparations. Heading 3603 specifically covers safety fuses, detonating fuses, percussion or detonating caps, igniters, and electric detonators. Blasting caps are small, sensitive explosive devices used to detonate larger, less sensitive explosives like TNT or dynamite. The classification 3603.40 is used for non-electric detonating caps that are typically triggered by a flame from a safety fuse or a shockwave. The distinction within heading 3603 is based on the specific mechanism of initiation and the physical form of the igniter. Because blasting caps are essential components in mining, construction, and demolition, their precise classification ensures that safety regulations and hazardous material handling protocols are strictly followed during international transit. The classification is determined by the explosive nature of the device and its role as a primary initiator in a blasting sequence, distinguishing it from secondary explosives or mechanical firing mechanisms.
- Covers
- Non-electric blasting caps
- Detonating caps for industrial use
- Percussion caps (excluding those for ammunition)
- Plain detonators
- Shock tube detonator caps (non-electric)
- Also under 3603.40
- Orica Exel Nonel
- Dyno Nobel DynoStart
- Ensign-Bickford Nonel
- Maxam Riodet
- Austin Powder E-Detonators
Codes often confused with 3603.40
Common mistake. Blasting caps are often confused with 3603.60, which is the specific code for electric detonators. While they perform similar functions, the method of initiation (electric vs. non-electric) separates them. They are also sometimes misclassified under 9306, which covers ammunition and cartridges, but industrial blasting components belong in Chapter 36.
Top exporters and importers of HS 360340 (the code used for blasting caps), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 360340 (the code used for blasting caps) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 13% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% of world imports. Peru did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 21% of its exports here ($5.8M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top exporters. Uzbekistan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 84% of its imports here ($28M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 360340, not only blasting caps.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $51M 13% of world exports
- 2 Czechia $40M 10% of world exports
- 3 United States $35M 9.1% of world exports
Peru did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 21% of its exports here ($5.8M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
World total: $388M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $62M 16% of world imports
- 2 Australia $35M 8.9% of world imports
- 3 Türkiye $26M 6.6% of world imports
Uzbekistan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 84% of its imports here ($28M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
World total: $396M 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 blasting caps
Brazil classifies blasting caps under NCM 3603.40.00: HS 3603.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about blasting caps
What is the HS code for Blasting caps?
The HS code for Blasting caps is 360340 (Detonating caps). The HS code for non-electric blasting caps is 3603.40. Electric versions are classified under 3603.60.
How do I classify Blasting caps for customs?
Blasting caps is classified under HS code 360340 — Detonating caps. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are these the same as percussion caps for guns?
While technically similar, percussion caps specifically for use in firearms ammunition are generally classified under heading 9306, whereas industrial blasting caps remain in 3603.40.
Which countries are the top exporters of blasting caps (HS 360340)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 360340 (the code used for blasting caps) in UN Comtrade data were India ($51M, 13% of world exports), Czechia ($40M) and the United States ($35M). World exports came to about $388M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Peru did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 21% of its exports here ($5.8M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Which countries are the top importers of blasting caps (HS 360340)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 360340 (the code used for blasting caps) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($62M, 16% of world imports), Australia ($35M) and Türkiye ($26M). World imports came to about $396M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Uzbekistan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 84% of its imports here ($28M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Is the HS code for Blasting caps the same in all countries?
The base HS code 360340 for Blasting caps 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 blasting caps in Brazil?
In Brazil, blasting caps (HS 360340) is classified under NCM 3603.40.00.