Product classification
HS code for Cyanogen chloride: 2853.10
Inorganic compounds, cyanogen chloride (chlorcyan).
Classification of cyanogen chloride under HS 2853.10
Cyanogen chloride is classified under HS code 2853.10, which falls within the chapter for inorganic chemicals. Heading 2853 is a category for \"other\" inorganic compounds that are not specified elsewhere in Chapter 28. Cyanogen chloride (CNCl) is a highly toxic chemical compound that exists as a colorless gas or liquid. Because of its specific chemical structure and its historical significance as a chemical agent, it is explicitly named in the subheading 2853.10. This classification is strictly for the pure chemical compound or stabilized versions of it. If the cyanogen chloride is part of a prepared mixture or a chemical weapon, it may be subject to different classifications in Chapter 38 or Chapter 93, though for trade and regulatory purposes, the pure substance remains here. This code is vital for monitoring the trade of dual-use chemicals, as cyanogen chloride is regulated under international treaties like the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Proper classification ensures that customs authorities can apply the necessary permits and safety protocols required for hazardous materials. The compound is primarily used in organic synthesis and as a precursor in the production of various herbicides and plastics. Due to its toxicity, it is often shipped under strict UN dangerous goods regulations, which must align with the HS code provided on the commercial invoice.
- Covers
- Pure cyanogen chloride
- Chlorcyan (liquid or gas)
- Stabilized cyanogen chloride
- Cyanogen chloride for laboratory use
- Also under 2853.10
- Used in some organic synthesis reactions
- historically as a chemical warfare agent
Codes often confused with 2853.10
Common mistake. Cyanogen chloride is sometimes misclassified under 2837, which covers cyanides and cyanide oxides. However, as a halide of cyanogen, it is specifically directed to 2853.10. It may also be confused with organic nitriles in heading 2926, but its inorganic nature keeps it in Chapter 28.
Top exporters and importers of HS 285310 (the code used for cyanogen chloride), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 285310 (the code used for cyanogen chloride) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 48% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was France, with 35% 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 285310, not only cyanogen chloride.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $383K 48% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $132K 16% of world exports
- 3 United Kingdom $101K 13% of world exports
World total: $800K Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 France $555K 35% of world imports
- 2 United States $347K 22% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $215K 14% of world imports
World total: $1.6M 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 cyanogen chloride
Brazil classifies cyanogen chloride under NCM 2853.10.00: HS 2853.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about cyanogen chloride
What is the HS code for Cyanogen chloride?
The HS code for Cyanogen chloride is 285310 (Inorganic compounds; cyanogen chloride (chlorcyan)). The specific HS code for cyanogen chloride (chlorcyan) is 2853.10.
How do I classify Cyanogen chloride for customs?
Cyanogen chloride is classified under HS code 285310 — Inorganic compounds; cyanogen chloride (chlorcyan). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is cyanogen chloride subject to export controls?
Yes, because it is a highly toxic chemical and a precursor for chemical weapons, it is heavily regulated and often requires an export license under the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Which countries are the top exporters of cyanogen chloride (HS 285310)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 285310 (the code used for cyanogen chloride) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($383K, 48% of world exports), the Netherlands ($132K) and the United Kingdom ($101K). World exports came to about $800K, 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 cyanogen chloride (HS 285310)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 285310 (the code used for cyanogen chloride) in UN Comtrade data were France ($555K, 35% of world imports), the United States ($347K) and the United Kingdom ($215K). World imports came to about $1.6M, 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 Cyanogen chloride the same in all countries?
The base HS code 285310 for Cyanogen chloride 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 cyanogen chloride in Brazil?
In Brazil, cyanogen chloride (HS 285310) is classified under NCM 2853.10.00.