Product classification
HS code for Colloidal graphite: 3801.20
Graphite, colloidal or semi-colloidal.
Classification of colloidal graphite under HS 3801.20
HS code 3801.20 is used for the classification of colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite. This product is categorized under Chapter 38, which deals with miscellaneous chemical products. Heading 3801 covers artificial graphite and various preparations based on graphite. Subheading 3801.20 specifically targets graphite that has been processed into a colloidal state, meaning the particles are finely divided and suspended in a medium (such as oil, water, or alcohol) to prevent settling. This form of graphite is widely used as a high-performance lubricant or as a conductive coating in industrial applications. The classification depends on the physical state of the graphite rather than its origin (natural or artificial), although artificial graphite itself is covered under 3801.10. To be classified under 3801.20, the product must exhibit the properties of a colloid, where the graphite particles are small enough to remain in suspension for an extended period.
- Covers
- Colloidal graphite in oil suspension
- Aqueous colloidal graphite dispersions
- Semi-colloidal graphite lubricants
- Graphite-based conductive coatings (colloidal)
- Graphite dispersions for industrial forging
- Also under 3801.20
- Acheson Colloids DAG dispersions
- Molykote G-Rapid Plus paste
- Henkel Loctite graphite spray
- Dow Corning Molykote lubricants
- Fuchs Gleitmo graphite
Codes often confused with 3801.20
Common mistake. Colloidal graphite is often misclassified under HS code 2504, which covers natural graphite in crystalline or flake form. However, once the graphite is processed into a colloidal suspension, it moves to Chapter 38. Another common error is using HS code 3403, which covers lubricating preparations. While colloidal graphite is used for lubrication, Heading 3801 specifically names colloidal graphite, and according to General Interpretative Rule 3(a), the most specific heading takes precedence. Therefore, 3801.20 is preferred over the more general 3403 unless the product is a complex mixture where graphite is only one component.
Top exporters and importers of HS 380120 (the code used for colloidal graphite), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 380120 (the code used for colloidal graphite) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 24% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was France, with 12% 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 380120, not only colloidal graphite.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $20M 24% of world exports
- 2 Germany $17M 20% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $12M 15% of world exports
World total: $84M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 France $11M 12% of world imports
- 2 Germany $10M 11% of world imports
- 3 Saudi Arabia $8.6M 9.3% of world imports
World total: $93M 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 codes for colloidal graphite
Brazil splits HS 3801.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 3801.20.10Semi-colloidal graphite in mineral oil
- 3801.20.90Other colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about colloidal graphite
What is the HS code for Colloidal graphite?
The HS code for Colloidal graphite is 380120 (Graphite; colloidal or semi-colloidal). The HS code for colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite is 3801.20.
How do I classify Colloidal graphite for customs?
Colloidal graphite is classified under HS code 380120 — Graphite; colloidal or semi-colloidal. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between HS 3801.10 and 3801.20?
HS 3801.10 is for artificial graphite in bulk or solid form, while 3801.20 is specifically for graphite that has been prepared as a colloidal or semi-colloidal suspension.
Which countries are the top exporters of colloidal graphite (HS 380120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 380120 (the code used for colloidal graphite) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($20M, 24% of world exports), Germany ($17M) and the Netherlands ($12M). World exports came to about $84M, 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 colloidal graphite (HS 380120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 380120 (the code used for colloidal graphite) in UN Comtrade data were France ($11M, 12% of world imports), Germany ($10M) and Saudi Arabia ($8.6M). World imports came to about $93M, 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 Colloidal graphite the same in all countries?
The base HS code 380120 for Colloidal graphite 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 colloidal graphite in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 380120 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for colloidal graphite depends on the product's details: 3801.20.10 (Semi-colloidal graphite in mineral oil), 3801.20.90 (Other colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite).