HS Code for Color photo paper

HS code 3703.20 is designated for photographic paper, paperboard, and textiles that are sensitized and unexposed, specifically for color photography (polychrome). This classification falls under Chapter 37, which covers photographic and cinematographic goods. The primary criteria for this code are that the material must be sensitized with light-sensitive emulsions (usually silver halides) and must be intended for producing multi-color images. Furthermore, 3703.20 excludes rolls of a width exceeding 610mm, which are instead classified under 3703.10. The classification is based on the chemical treatment of the substrate rather than the substrate material itself, meaning it can include paper, cardboard, or even sensitized textiles. It is important to note that this code only applies to "unexposed" materials; once the paper has been exposed and developed, it moves to heading 3705 or 3706 depending on the format. The technical requirement for 3703.20 is the presence of multiple layers of emulsion sensitive to different parts of the visible spectrum, allowing for the reproduction of full-color images upon chemical processing.

Products Included

• Silver halide color photographic paper
• Sensitized color paperboard for professional printing
• Unexposed color photographic textiles
• Instant print film paper (color)
• Color-sensitized paper for darkroom use

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with HS code 4811, which covers paper coated in various ways but not sensitized with photographic emulsions. Inkjet photo paper, for example, is usually 4811.90 and not 3703.20, as it lacks silver halide sensitization. Another error is confusing 3703.20 with 3703.90, which is reserved for black and white (monochrome) photographic paper. Additionally, if the paper is in rolls wider than 610mm, it must be classified under 3703.10 regardless of its color capabilities.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Color photo paper?

The HS code for color photographic paper, paperboard, and textiles (sensitized and unexposed) is 3703.20.

Does this include paper for inkjet printers?

Generally, no. Inkjet paper is usually classified under 4811 because it is not sensitized with light-sensitive chemicals like silver halides, which are required for Chapter 37.