HS Code for Copper sulphate

Copper sulphate is classified under HS code 283325. This classification is situated within Chapter 28, which covers inorganic chemicals, precious metal compounds, and radioactive elements. Heading 2833 is dedicated to sulphates, alums, and peroxosulphates. Subheading 283325 is the specific international code for sulphates of copper. This includes both the anhydrous form (CuSO4) and the more common hydrated forms, most notably copper sulphate pentahydrate (CuSO4·5H2O), often referred to as blue vitriol or bluestone. The classification is based on the chemical identity of the substance as a separate chemically defined compound. According to the Chapter 28 notes, heading 2833 generally includes only separate chemically defined compounds, whether or not containing impurities. Copper sulphate is a versatile chemical used in various industries, including mining as a flotation activator, agriculture as a soil nutrient, and water treatment as an algaecide. However, its classification remains in Chapter 28 regardless of its intended use, provided it is not prepared for retail sale as a pesticide or fungicide. If the copper sulphate is mixed with other substances to create a specific agricultural preparation, or if it is put up in small packages for retail sale as a fungicide, it may be reclassified under heading 3808. For bulk industrial shipments, 283325 is the correct code. The classification process involves confirming that the product is indeed a sulphate of copper and checking for any additives that might shift it to a different chapter. Natural copper sulphates, such as brochantite, are excluded from this heading and are instead classified as ores in Chapter 26.

Products Included

• Copper sulphate pentahydrate
• Anhydrous copper sulphate
• Bluestone (chemical grade)
• Blue vitriol
• Cupric sulphate
• Industrial grade copper sulphate crystals

Common Misclassification

Copper sulphate is often misclassified under HS code 3808.92 when intended for use as a fungicide. However, 3808 only applies if the product is in retail packaging or prepared as a mixture. Another error is 2825.50, which is for copper oxides and hydroxides, which are chemically distinct from sulphates.

FAQ

What is the HS code for copper sulphate?

The HS code for copper sulphate is 283325, covering both anhydrous and hydrated forms.

Is copper sulphate classified as a pesticide for customs?

It is classified as a chemical (283325) unless it is specifically packaged for retail sale as a pesticide or mixed with other active ingredients, in which case it falls under 3808.