Product classification
HS code for Calcium carbide: 2849.10
Carbides, of calcium, whether or not chemically defined.
Classification of calcium carbide under HS 2849.10
Calcium carbide is classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 2849.10. This classification is straightforward, as the HS description explicitly states "Carbides; of calcium, whether or not chemically defined." This places calcium carbide within Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals. The specific subheading 2849.10 is dedicated solely to calcium carbide, recognizing its distinct chemical identity and industrial significance. The phrase "whether or not chemically defined" ensures that both pure and technical grades of calcium carbide are included under this single code, simplifying its international trade classification.
- Covers
- Technical grade calcium carbide lumps or powder.
- Chemically pure calcium carbide.
- Calcium carbide used for acetylene gas production.
- Calcium carbide for desulfurization in metallurgy.
- Also under 2849.10
- Used in welding gas production
- desulfurization in steel mills
- carbide lamps
Codes often confused with 2849.10
Common mistake. Calcium carbide might be confused with other carbides, such as silicon carbide (HS 2849.20) or other carbides (HS 2849.90). The key differentiator for HS 2849.10 is the specific chemical element "calcium" forming the carbide. Misclassification could occur if the "of calcium" specificity is overlooked, leading to its erroneous placement under general carbide categories or other inorganic compounds. It is crucial to verify that the product is indeed a carbide of calcium and not another metallic or non-metallic carbide.
Top exporters and importers of HS 284910 (the code used for calcium carbide), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 284910 (the code used for calcium carbide) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 41% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 7.7% 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 284910, not only calcium carbide.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $82M 41% of world exports
- 2 Slovakia $45M 23% of world exports
- 3 Germany $16M 8.1% of world exports
World total: $198M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $20M 7.7% of world imports
- 2 France $19M 7.3% of world imports
- 3 Poland $15M 5.6% of world imports
World total: $265M 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 calcium carbide
Brazil classifies calcium carbide under NCM 2849.10.00: HS 2849.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about calcium carbide
What is the HS code for Calcium carbide?
The HS code for Calcium carbide is 284910 (Carbides; of calcium, whether or not chemically defined). The HS code for Calcium carbide is 2849.10, which specifically covers "Carbides; of calcium, whether or not chemically defined."
How do I classify Calcium carbide for customs?
Calcium carbide is classified under HS code 284910 — Carbides; of calcium, whether or not chemically defined. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What are the primary industrial uses of Calcium carbide?
Calcium carbide is primarily used in the production of acetylene gas, which is utilized in welding and cutting applications, and as a chemical feedstock. It is also employed in the steel industry for desulfurization and as a deoxidizer.
Which countries are the top exporters of calcium carbide (HS 284910)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 284910 (the code used for calcium carbide) in UN Comtrade data were China ($82M, 41% of world exports), Slovakia ($45M) and Germany ($16M). World exports came to about $198M, 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 calcium carbide (HS 284910)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 284910 (the code used for calcium carbide) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($20M, 7.7% of world imports), France ($19M) and Poland ($15M). World imports came to about $265M, 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 Calcium carbide the same in all countries?
The base HS code 284910 for Calcium carbide 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 calcium carbide in Brazil?
In Brazil, calcium carbide (HS 284910) is classified under NCM 2849.10.00.