HS Code for Calcium cyanide

Calcium cyanide is classified under HS code 2837.19, which covers cyanides and cyanide oxides other than those of sodium. This classification is governed by the rules of Chapter 28, which encompasses inorganic chemicals and precious metal compounds. Specifically, heading 2837 is reserved for cyanides, cyanide oxides, and complex cyanides. Within this heading, the Harmonized System distinguishes between sodium cyanide (2837.11) and other inorganic cyanides. Calcium cyanide, represented by the chemical formula Ca(CN)2, is an inorganic salt of hydrocyanic acid. Because it is not a sodium-based cyanide and is not a complex cyanide (such as ferrocyanides), it falls into the residual subheading 2837.19. Classification follows General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which relies on the literal terms of the headings and section notes. To remain in Chapter 28, the product must be a separate chemically defined element or compound, typically in a technical or pure grade, and not prepared as a pesticide or for retail sale in a manner that would move it to Chapter 38.

Products Included

• Technical grade calcium cyanide powder
• Calcium cyanide flakes used in gold and silver extraction
• Calcium cyanide granules for industrial chemical synthesis
• Pure calcium cyanide for laboratory reagents

Common Misclassification

Calcium cyanide is frequently confused with sodium cyanide, which is classified under HS code 2837.11. While both are used in mining, the cation (calcium vs. sodium) dictates the specific subheading. Another common error involves complex cyanides, such as calcium ferrocyanide, which are classified under 2837.20. Furthermore, if calcium cyanide is prepared specifically as a rodenticide or pesticide and packaged for retail sale, it may be classified under heading 3808 instead of Chapter 28.

FAQ

What is the HS code for calcium cyanide?

The HS code for calcium cyanide is 2837.19, representing other cyanides and cyanide oxides.

Is calcium cyanide classified as a fertilizer?

No, calcium cyanide is a highly toxic chemical used primarily in mining and chemical synthesis; it is not used as a fertilizer and should not be confused with calcium cyanamide (3102.90).