Product classification
HS code for Filter paper: 4823.20
Paper and paperboard, filter paper and paperboard.
Classification of filter paper under HS 4823.20
Filter paper is classified under HS code 4823.20. This classification is part of Chapter 48, which covers paper and paperboard. Specifically, heading 4823 refers to other paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding, and webs of cellulose fibers that have been cut to size or shape. Subheading 4823.20 is the specific designation for filter paper and paperboard. The classification process involves distinguishing between bulk paper and converted paper products. Under GRI 1 and GRI 6, if the filter paper is already cut into specific shapes (such as circles, squares, or folded filters) or is presented in small rolls or sheets cut to size for specific laboratory or industrial equipment, it must be classified here. The paper is typically characterized by its porosity, thickness, and lack of sizing, which allows for the passage of liquids while retaining solid particles. The manufacturing process involves specialized cellulose fibers that are often acid-washed or hardened to ensure chemical purity and structural integrity during the filtration process.
- Covers
- Circular laboratory filter papers
- Folded paper filters for industrial use
- Filter paper sheets cut to specific dimensions
- Coffee filter papers (retail or industrial)
- Quantitative and qualitative analytical filter papers
- Also under 4823.20
- Whatman filter paper
- Melitta coffee filters
- H&V (Hollingsworth & Vose) filter media
- Ahlstrom-Munksjö filter materials
Codes often confused with 4823.20
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs with HS code 4805.40, which covers filter paper and paperboard in large, uncut rolls or sheets. The distinction lies in whether the paper has been "cut to size or shape." If the paper is in bulk form, 4805.40 is correct; if it is ready for use in a specific device, 4823.20 applies. It is also sometimes confused with 4812.00, which is reserved for filter blocks and slabs made of paper pulp rather than finished paper.
Top exporters and importers of HS 482320 (the code used for filter paper), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 482320 (the code used for filter paper) in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 9.3% 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 482320, not only filter paper.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Italy $187M 19% of world exports
- 2 Germany $184M 19% of world exports
- 3 China $138M 14% of world exports
World total: $968M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $91M 9.3% of world imports
- 2 Germany $75M 7.7% of world imports
- 3 Canada $59M 6.0% of world imports
World total: $978M 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 filter paper
Brazil splits HS 4823.20 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 4823.20.10Cut filter paper 15–25 g/m², 20–30% sealable fibre
- 4823.20.91Filter paper strips or rolls, 15–36 cm wide
- 4823.20.99Other cut filter paper and paperboard
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
This product is covered by the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), requiring operators to exercise due diligence to minimize the risk of placing illegally harvested timber on the EU market.
Questions about filter paper
What is the HS code for Filter paper?
The HS code for Filter paper is 482320 (Paper and paperboard; filter paper and paperboard). The HS code for filter paper cut to size or shape is 4823.20.
How do I classify Filter paper for customs?
Filter paper is classified under HS code 482320 — Paper and paperboard; filter paper and paperboard. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is coffee filter paper classified under this code?
Yes, coffee filters made of paper that are cut to shape for use in brewing machines are classified under HS code 4823.20.
Which countries are the top exporters of filter paper (HS 482320)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 482320 (the code used for filter paper) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($187M, 19% of world exports), Germany ($184M) and China ($138M). World exports came to about $968M, 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 filter paper (HS 482320)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 482320 (the code used for filter paper) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($91M, 9.3% of world imports), Germany ($75M) and Canada ($59M). World imports came to about $978M, 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 Filter paper the same in all countries?
The base HS code 482320 for Filter paper 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 filter paper in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 482320 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for filter paper depends on the product's details: 4823.20.10 (Cut filter paper 15–25 g/m², 20–30% sealable fibre), 4823.20.91 (Filter paper strips or rolls, 15–36 cm wide), 4823.20.99 (Other cut filter paper and paperboard).