Product classification
HS code for Fireclay: 2508.30
Clays (excluding expanded clays of heading no. 6806), fireclay, whether or not calcined.
Classification of fireclay under HS 2508.30
Fireclay is a specialized type of refractory clay that is classified under HS code 2508.30. This classification is determined by the material's unique ability to withstand extreme temperatures without undergoing significant physical or chemical changes, such as melting or softening. Chemically, fireclay is composed primarily of hydrous aluminum silicates, often with high concentrations of alumina and silica, and low levels of impurities like iron oxide or calcium. The Harmonized System places fireclay within Heading 2508, which encompasses various natural clays. Subheading 2508.30 specifically identifies fireclay, regardless of whether it is in its raw, natural state or has undergone calcination. Calcination involves heating the clay to high temperatures to remove volatile substances and chemically combined water, which enhances its refractory properties. This material is indispensable in heavy industries, particularly for the manufacture of refractory bricks, furnace linings, crucibles, and other equipment used in glassmaking, steel production, and ceramics. Its classification is based on its mineralogical properties rather than its final shape or application.
- Covers
- Raw fireclay in powder or lump form
- Calcined fireclay (also known as chamotte)
- Plastic fireclay used for patching furnace walls
- Ground fireclay for use in refractory mortars
- Flint clay with high alumina content
- Also under 2508.30
- HarbisonWalker International (HWI)
- RHI Magnesita
- Vesuvius
- Resco Products
- Allied Mineral Products.
Codes often confused with 2508.30
Common mistake. Fireclay is frequently misclassified with other types of clay found in Heading 2508. For instance, Bentonite (2508.10) and Mullite (2508.50) are often confused with fireclay due to their similar appearance in powdered form. However, Bentonite is characterized by its swelling properties, whereas fireclay is defined by its heat resistance. Additionally, Kaolin and other kaolinic clays are classified under Heading 25.07. While fireclay may contain kaolinite, its primary industrial designation as a refractory material dictates its placement in 2508.30. Another common error involves classifying finished refractory bricks under 6902, which is reserved for manufactured ceramic goods rather than the raw or calcined mineral material.
Top exporters and importers of HS 250830 (the code used for fireclay), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 250830 (the code used for fireclay) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 60% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 13% 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 250830, not only fireclay.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $162M 60% of world exports
- 2 United States $50M 19% of world exports
- 3 Ukraine* ~$37M 14% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $269M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Italy $23M 13% of world imports
- 2 France $20M 11% of world imports
- 3 Spain $19M 11% of world imports
World total: $178M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 fireclay
Brazil classifies fireclay under NCM 2508.30.00: HS 2508.30 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about fireclay
What is the HS code for Fireclay?
The HS code for Fireclay is 250830 (Clays (excluding expanded clays of heading no. 6806); fireclay, whether or not calcined). The HS code for fireclay, whether or not it has been calcined, is 2508.30.
How do I classify Fireclay for customs?
Fireclay is classified under HS code 250830 — Clays (excluding expanded clays of heading no. 6806); fireclay, whether or not calcined. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does calcined fireclay have a different code?
No, both raw and calcined fireclay are classified under the same subheading, 2508.30, as the calcination process does not change the fundamental nature of the mineral for HS classification purposes.
Which countries are the top exporters of fireclay (HS 250830)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 250830 (the code used for fireclay) in UN Comtrade data were China ($162M, 60% of world exports), the United States ($50M) and Ukraine (about $37M). World exports came to about $269M, 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 fireclay (HS 250830)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 250830 (the code used for fireclay) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($23M, 13% of world imports), France ($20M) and Spain ($19M). World imports came to about $178M, 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 Fireclay the same in all countries?
The base HS code 250830 for Fireclay 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 fireclay in Brazil?
In Brazil, fireclay (HS 250830) is classified under NCM 2508.30.00.