Product classification
HS code for Calcium metal: 2805.12
Alkali or alkali-earth metals, calcium.
Classification of calcium metal under HS 2805.12
Calcium metal is classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 2805.12. This classification is based on its identity as an alkali-earth metal. Chapter 28 of the HS nomenclature encompasses inorganic chemicals, and heading 2805 specifically addresses "Alkali or alkali-earth metals; rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium, whether or not intermixed or interalloyed; mercury." Within this heading, subheading 2805.12 precisely identifies calcium, distinguishing it from other alkali or alkali-earth metals. The classification reflects its fundamental chemical nature and its position within the periodic table as a reactive metallic element.
- Covers
- Pure calcium metal
- Calcium ingots
- Calcium granules
- Calcium powder
- Calcium turnings
- Calcium wire
- Also under 2805.12
- Alfa Aesar Calcium
- American Elements Calcium
- Materion Calcium
- China Minmetals (calcium metal)
- Rusal (uses calcium in aluminum alloys)
Codes often confused with 2805.12
Common mistake. Common misclassifications for calcium metal often involve other reactive metals or broader categories. HS 2805.11 covers "Sodium," which is an alkali metal, not an alkali-earth metal. While both are highly reactive, their distinct chemical properties and applications necessitate separate classifications. HS 2805.19 is designated for "Other alkali or alkali-earth metals," which would include elements like strontium or barium, but not specifically calcium, as calcium has its own dedicated subheading. Furthermore, HS 2805.30 covers "Rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium," which are entirely different groups of metals with distinct characteristics and uses, making their classification separate from calcium.
Top exporters and importers of HS 280512 (the code used for calcium metal), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 280512 (the code used for calcium metal) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 73% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 18% 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 280512, not only calcium metal.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $72M 73% of world exports
- 2 United States $8.7M 8.8% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $6.9M 7.0% of world exports
World total: $98M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $27M 18% of world imports
- 2 United States $17M 11% of world imports
- 3 Poland $13M 8.4% of world imports
World total: $150M 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 metal
Brazil classifies calcium metal under NCM 2805.12.00: HS 2805.12 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about calcium metal
What is the HS code for Calcium metal?
The HS code for Calcium metal is 280512 (Alkali or alkali-earth metals; calcium). The HS code for calcium metal is 2805.12.
How do I classify Calcium metal for customs?
Calcium metal is classified under HS code 280512 — Alkali or alkali-earth metals; calcium. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between alkali and alkali-earth metals in HS classification?
In HS classification, alkali metals such as sodium and potassium are typically classified under subheading 2805.11. Alkali-earth metals, which include calcium, magnesium, and barium, are classified under 2805.12 (for calcium) or 2805.19 (for other alkali-earth metals). This distinction reflects their differing valencies and chemical behaviors, which are fundamental to their industrial applications and trade categorization.
Which countries are the top exporters of calcium metal (HS 280512)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 280512 (the code used for calcium metal) in UN Comtrade data were China ($72M, 73% of world exports), the United States ($8.7M) and the Netherlands ($6.9M). World exports came to about $98M, 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 metal (HS 280512)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 280512 (the code used for calcium metal) in UN Comtrade data were India ($27M, 18% of world imports), the United States ($17M) and Poland ($13M). World imports came to about $150M, 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 metal the same in all countries?
The base HS code 280512 for Calcium metal 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 metal in Brazil?
In Brazil, calcium metal (HS 280512) is classified under NCM 2805.12.00.