Product classification
HS code for Iodine: 2801.20
Iodine.
Classification of iodine under HS 2801.20
Iodine is a non-metallic chemical element with the atomic number 53. In the context of international trade, elemental iodine is classified under HS code 2801.20. Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System covers inorganic chemicals and precious metals. Heading 2801 specifically includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine. The classification for iodine is straightforward because it is a primary chemical element. Whether the iodine is in the form of crude crystals, flakes, or highly purified resublimed crystals, it remains under 2801.20 as long as it is not put up in measured doses or in forms for retail sale as a medicament. The purity level does not generally change the four-digit heading, provided the substance remains chemically defined as the element iodine. This code is essential for tracking the trade of this critical element used in pharmaceuticals, photography, and industrial catalysts.
- Covers
- Crude iodine
- Resublimed iodine
- Iodine crystals
- Iodine flakes
- Sublimed iodine powder
- Also under 2801.20
- SQM Iodine
- Ise Chemical Iodine
- Godo Shigen Iodine
- Cosayach Iodine
Codes often confused with 2801.20
Common mistake. Iodine is commonly confused with HS code 2827.60, which covers iodides and iodide oxides (chemical compounds containing iodine). It is also frequently misclassified under 3004.90 if it is prepared as an antiseptic solution for retail sale. Elemental iodine (2801.20) must be distinguished from its compounds and from finished medical preparations containing iodine.
Top exporters and importers of HS 280120 (the code used for iodine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 280120 (the code used for iodine) in UN Comtrade data was Chile, with 63% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 25% 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 280120, not only iodine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Chile $1.5B 63% of world exports
- 2 Japan $345M 14% of world exports
- 3 Belgium $345M 14% of world exports
World total: $2.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $662M 25% of world imports
- 2 India $325M 12% of world imports
- 3 Norway $304M 11% of world imports
World total: $2.6B 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 iodine
Brazil splits HS 2801.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 2801.20.10Sublimed iodine
- 2801.20.90Iodine, other than sublimed
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about iodine
What is the HS code for Iodine?
The HS code for Iodine is 280120 (Iodine). The HS code for elemental iodine is 2801.20.
How do I classify Iodine for customs?
Iodine is classified under HS code 280120 — Iodine. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is povidone-iodine classified under 2801.20?
No, povidone-iodine is a chemical complex and is typically classified under HS code 3905.99 or as a medicament under 3004, depending on its preparation and packaging.
Which countries are the top exporters of iodine (HS 280120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 280120 (the code used for iodine) in UN Comtrade data were Chile ($1.5B, 63% of world exports), Japan ($345M) and Belgium ($345M). World exports came to about $2.4B, 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 iodine (HS 280120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 280120 (the code used for iodine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($662M, 25% of world imports), India ($325M) and Norway ($304M). World imports came to about $2.6B, 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 Iodine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 280120 for Iodine 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 iodine in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 280120 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for iodine depends on the product's details: 2801.20.10 (Sublimed iodine), 2801.20.90 (Iodine, other than sublimed).