Product classification
HS code for Blue asbestos: 2524.10
Asbestos, crocidolite (blue asbestos).
Classification of blue asbestos under HS 2524.10
Blue asbestos, scientifically known as crocidolite, is classified under HS code 2524.10. Chapter 25 of the Harmonized System covers salt; sulfur; earths and stone; plastering materials, lime, and cement. Heading 2524 is dedicated specifically to asbestos. In 2007, the Harmonized System was amended to provide a specific subheading for crocidolite (2524.10) due to its high toxicity and the international regulations surrounding its trade, such as the Rotterdam Convention. This classification applies to the mineral in its raw state, including fibers, flakes, or powder, and even asbestos rock that has been crushed. It is essential to distinguish this specific mineralogical form from other types of asbestos, such as chrysotile (white asbestos), which are classified elsewhere within the same heading. The classification is strictly based on the chemical and mineralogical composition of the material, regardless of its intended industrial use, provided it has not been fabricated into finished goods.
- Covers
- Raw crocidolite fibers
- Blue asbestos in rock form
- Crushed blue asbestos
- Crocidolite concentrates
- Blue asbestos waste (mineral)
- Also under 2524.10
- (No current legitimate examples due to bans)
Codes often confused with 2524.10
Common mistake. The most common misclassification is placing blue asbestos under 2524.90, which is the category for other types of asbestos like chrysotile, amosite, or anthophyllite. Because 2524.10 is a specific provision for crocidolite, it takes precedence over the general category. Another error involves classifying raw asbestos under 6812. Heading 6812 is for fabricated asbestos fibers and mixtures with a basis of asbestos, such as yarn, thread, or cords. If the material has been processed beyond simple cleaning or crushing into a manufactured product, it leaves Chapter 25 entirely. Importers must also be aware of 6811, which covers asbestos-cement products, as these are often confused with the raw mineral.
Top exporters and importers of HS 252410 (the code used for blue asbestos), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 252410 (the code used for blue asbestos) in UN Comtrade data was the United Kingdom, with 93% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Guatemala, with 51% of world imports. Mexico reports $284M of its chapter 25 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 252410, not only blue asbestos.
Top exporters 2025 ยท share of world exports
- 1 United Kingdom $1K 93% of world exports
- 2 Russia* ~$101 7.1% of world exports ยท partner records โ
Mexico reports $284M of its chapter 25 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
World total: $1K Reported figures on UN Comtrade โ
Top importers 2025 ยท share of world imports
- 1 Guatemala $2K 51% of world imports
- 2 Kazakhstan $2K 43% of world imports
- 3 France $282 6.4% of world imports
World total: $4K Reported figures on UN Comtrade โ
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 blue asbestos
Brazil classifies blue asbestos under NCM 2524.10.00: HS 2524.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about blue asbestos
What is the HS code for Blue asbestos?
The HS code for Blue asbestos is 252410 (Asbestos; crocidolite (blue asbestos)). The specific HS code for crocidolite, also known as blue asbestos, is 2524.10.
How do I classify Blue asbestos for customs?
Blue asbestos is classified under HS code 252410 โ Asbestos; crocidolite (blue asbestos). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are products made of blue asbestos classified here?
No, finished products like asbestos sheets or insulation are classified in Chapter 68, specifically under headings 6811 or 6812.
Which countries are the top exporters of blue asbestos (HS 252410)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 252410 (the code used for blue asbestos) in UN Comtrade data were the United Kingdom ($1K, 93% of world exports) and Russia (about $101). World exports came to about $1K, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Mexico reports $284M of its chapter 25 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Which countries are the top importers of blue asbestos (HS 252410)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 252410 (the code used for blue asbestos) in UN Comtrade data were Guatemala ($2K, 51% of world imports), Kazakhstan ($2K) and France ($282). World imports came to about $4K, 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 Blue asbestos the same in all countries?
The base HS code 252410 for Blue asbestos 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 blue asbestos in Brazil?
In Brazil, blue asbestos (HS 252410) is classified under NCM 2524.10.00.