Product classification
HS code for Dye pigment: 3204.17
Dyes, pigments and preparations based thereon.
Classification of dye pigment under HS 3204.17
Dye pigments are classified under HS code 3204.17, which specifically refers to synthetic organic pigments and preparations based on them. This classification is found in Chapter 32, which covers tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins, and their derivatives. The classification is determined by the chemical nature of the coloring matter; it must be a synthetic organic compound. These pigments are insoluble coloring agents that are dispersed in a medium to provide color to products like plastics, paints, and printing inks. The heading 3204.17 also includes "preparations" based on these pigments, which are concentrated mixtures of the pigment in a carrier (such as a plastic resin) used as an intermediate in manufacturing processes. It is vital to distinguish these from inorganic pigments, which are classified under heading 3206. The distinction between organic and inorganic pigments is a fundamental aspect of chemical classification in the Harmonized System, as it reflects different manufacturing processes and chemical properties. Proper classification ensures compliance with environmental and chemical safety regulations.
- Covers
- Synthetic organic pigment powders
- Pigment dispersions in plastics
- Organic pigment pastes
- Masterbatches containing organic pigments
- Azo pigments
- Also under 3204.17
- BASF Irgalite pigments
- Clariant Hostaperm pigments
- DIC Dainichiseika pigments
- Sun Chemical Sunfast pigments
Codes often confused with 3204.17
Common mistake. Dye pigments are often misclassified under 3206.11 through 3206.49, which are reserved for inorganic coloring matter like titanium dioxide. They are also confused with 3204.11 (disperse dyes) or 3215.11 (printing inks). The distinction lies in whether the substance is a soluble dye or an insoluble pigment.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320417 (the code used for dye pigment), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320417 (the code used for dye pigment) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 22% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 8.9% 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 320417, not only dye pigment.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $985M 22% of world exports
- 2 India $784M 18% of world exports
- 3 Germany $542M 12% of world exports
World total: $4.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $425M 8.9% of world imports
- 2 United States $418M 8.7% of world imports
- 3 China $332M 6.9% of world imports
World total: $4.8B 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 dye pigment
Brazil classifies dye pigment under NCM 3204.17.00: HS 3204.17 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about dye pigment
What is the HS code for Dye pigment?
The HS code for Dye pigment is 320417 (Dyes; pigments and preparations based thereon). The HS code for synthetic organic dye pigments and their preparations is 3204.17.
How do I classify Dye pigment for customs?
Dye pigment is classified under HS code 320417 — Dyes; pigments and preparations based thereon. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between a dye and a pigment in HS codes?
Dyes (usually 3204.11-3204.16) are generally soluble in the medium they color, while pigments (3204.17) are insoluble and require a binder or carrier.
Which countries are the top exporters of dye pigment (HS 320417)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320417 (the code used for dye pigment) in UN Comtrade data were China ($985M, 22% of world exports), India ($784M) and Germany ($542M). World exports came to about $4.5B, 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 dye pigment (HS 320417)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320417 (the code used for dye pigment) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($425M, 8.9% of world imports), the United States ($418M) and China ($332M). World imports came to about $4.8B, 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 Dye pigment the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320417 for Dye 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 dye pigment in Brazil?
In Brazil, dye pigment (HS 320417) is classified under NCM 3204.17.00.