Product classification
HS code for Chrome pigment: 3206.20
Colouring matter, pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds.
Classification of chrome pigment under HS 3206.20
Chrome pigments are classified under HS code 3206.20. This code falls within Chapter 32, which encompasses tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins and their derivatives, dyes, pigments, and other coloring matter. Heading 3206 specifically addresses \"Other coloring matter; preparations as specified in Note 3 to this Chapter.\" Subheading 3206.20 is reserved for pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds. These are inorganic substances used to impart color to various substrates, including paints, plastics, and inks. The classification is based on the fact that these materials are prepared pigments where the chromium compound is the essential coloring component, distinguishing them from raw chromium chemicals or finished paints containing these pigments.
- Covers
- Chrome yellow (Lead chromate)
- Chrome green (Mixture of chrome yellow and Prussian blue)
- Chrome orange
- Molybdate orange (containing chromium)
- Zinc chromate pigments
- Strontium chromate pigments
- Also under 3206.20
- BASF Chrome Yellow
- Lanxess Chromium Oxide Green
- Shepherd Color Company Chrome Titanate
- DIC Corporation Chromium Pigments
- Ferro Corporation Chromate Pigments
Codes often confused with 3206.20
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs with HS code 3204, which is strictly for synthetic organic coloring matter; since chrome pigments are inorganic, they must stay in 3206. Another frequent error is using HS code 2819, which covers pure chromium oxides and hydroxides. While these chemicals can have pigmentary properties, if they are specifically prepared for use as pigments (e.g., with surfactants or dispersed in a medium), they must be moved to 3206.20. Furthermore, finished paints and enamels containing these pigments should be classified under 3208 or 3209 depending on their solvent base.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320620 (the code used for chrome pigment), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320620 (the code used for chrome pigment) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 39% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Türkiye, with 7.8% 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 320620, not only chrome pigment.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $55M 39% of world exports
- 2 China $16M 11% of world exports
- 3 Colombia $10M 7.2% of world exports
World total: $142M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Türkiye $13M 7.8% of world imports
- 2 United States $12M 7.2% of world imports
- 3 Thailand $10M 6.4% of world imports
World total: $163M 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 chrome pigment
Brazil classifies chrome pigment under NCM 3206.20.00: HS 3206.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about chrome pigment
What is the HS code for Chrome pigment?
The HS code for Chrome pigment is 320620 (Colouring matter; pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds). The HS code for pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds is 3206.20.
How do I classify Chrome pigment for customs?
Chrome pigment is classified under HS code 320620 — Colouring matter; pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are lead-based chrome pigments classified differently?
While lead chromate is a common chrome pigment, it is still classified under 3206.20 in the Harmonized System, though it may be subject to specific environmental regulations or additional sub-headings in certain jurisdictions.
Which countries are the top exporters of chrome pigment (HS 320620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320620 (the code used for chrome pigment) in UN Comtrade data were India ($55M, 39% of world exports), China ($16M) and Colombia ($10M). World exports came to about $142M, 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 chrome pigment (HS 320620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320620 (the code used for chrome pigment) in UN Comtrade data were Türkiye ($13M, 7.8% of world imports), the United States ($12M) and Thailand ($10M). World imports came to about $163M, 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 Chrome pigment the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320620 for Chrome pigment 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 chrome pigment in Brazil?
In Brazil, chrome pigment (HS 320620) is classified under NCM 3206.20.00.