Product classification
HS code for Chlorosulfuric acid: 2806.20
Chlorosulphuric acid.
Classification of chlorosulfuric acid under HS 2806.20
Chlorosulfuric acid is classified under HS code 2806.20 according to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI). Specifically, GRI 1 dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals, and heading 2806 is specifically designated for hydrogen chloride (hydrochloric acid) and chlorosulphuric acid. As a distinct chemical compound, chlorosulfuric acid (HSO3Cl) fits precisely into this subheading. The classification process involves identifying the chemical structure as an inorganic acid where a hydroxyl group of sulfuric acid is replaced by chlorine. This specific chemical identity precludes it from being classified under more general headings for other inorganic acids or sulfur-based compounds. Furthermore, the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for heading 2806 clarify that chlorosulphuric acid, often commercially referred to as chlorosulphonic acid, is a colorless or yellowish liquid that fumes in moist air and is used primarily in organic synthesis, particularly for sulfonations. Because it is a well-defined chemical entity, it must be classified in Chapter 28 rather than as a preparation in later chapters, provided it meets the purity requirements set forth in Note 1 to Chapter 28. The classification remains consistent regardless of the concentration, provided it is not mixed with other substances that would change its character as a separate chemically defined compound.
- Covers
- Chlorosulphuric acid
- Chlorosulphonic acid
- Sulfuric chlorohydrin
- Monochlorosulphuric acid
- Also under 2806.20
- BASF Chlorosulfonic Acid
- Lanxess Chlorosulfonic Acid
- Sigma-Aldrich Chlorosulfonic Acid
- Merck KGaA Chlorosulfonic Acid
- Arkema Chlorosulfonic Acid
Codes often confused with 2806.20
Common mistake. Chlorosulfuric acid is frequently misclassified under HS code 2807.00, which is reserved for sulphuric acid and oleum. While chemically related, the presence of the chlorine atom necessitates classification under 2806.20. It is also sometimes confused with 2811.19, which covers other inorganic acids, but since chlorosulfuric acid is specifically named in heading 2806, that heading takes precedence over the residual category.
Top exporters and importers of HS 280620 (the code used for chlorosulfuric acid), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 280620 (the code used for chlorosulfuric acid) in UN Comtrade data was Switzerland, with 42% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was France, with 31% 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 280620, not only chlorosulfuric acid.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Switzerland $3.9M 42% of world exports
- 2 Germany $2.0M 22% of world exports
- 3 China $1.2M 13% of world exports
World total: $9.3M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 France $3.0M 31% of world imports
- 2 Germany $2.4M 25% of world imports
- 3 Romania $1.6M 16% of world imports
World total: $9.8M 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 chlorosulfuric acid
Brazil classifies chlorosulfuric acid under NCM 2806.20.00: HS 2806.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about chlorosulfuric acid
What is the HS code for Chlorosulfuric acid?
The HS code for Chlorosulfuric acid is 280620 (Chlorosulphuric acid). The international HS code for chlorosulfuric acid is 2806.20.
How do I classify Chlorosulfuric acid for customs?
Chlorosulfuric acid is classified under HS code 280620 — Chlorosulphuric acid. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is chlorosulfuric acid classified differently if it is used as a reagent?
No, as long as it remains a separate chemically defined compound, its intended use as a laboratory reagent does not change its classification under 2806.20.
Which countries are the top exporters of chlorosulfuric acid (HS 280620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 280620 (the code used for chlorosulfuric acid) in UN Comtrade data were Switzerland ($3.9M, 42% of world exports), Germany ($2.0M) and China ($1.2M). World exports came to about $9.3M, 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 chlorosulfuric acid (HS 280620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 280620 (the code used for chlorosulfuric acid) in UN Comtrade data were France ($3.0M, 31% of world imports), Germany ($2.4M) and Romania ($1.6M). World imports came to about $9.8M, 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 Chlorosulfuric acid the same in all countries?
The base HS code 280620 for Chlorosulfuric acid 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 chlorosulfuric acid in Brazil?
In Brazil, chlorosulfuric acid (HS 280620) is classified under NCM 2806.20.00.