Product classification
HS code for Iron oxide pigments: 2821.20
Earth colours, containing 70% or more by weight of combined iron evaluated as Fe2o3.
Classification of iron oxide pigments under HS 2821.20
Iron oxide pigments, specifically those categorized as earth colors, fall under HS code 2821.20. This classification is unique because it requires the substance to contain 70% or more by weight of combined iron evaluated as Fe2O3. These are often natural earths that have been washed, ground, or calcined, but they maintain a specific mineralogical profile. The distinction between 2821.10 and 2821.20 is critical for customs purposes, as earth colors are treated differently than pure chemical oxides. This heading includes natural micaceous iron oxides used for anti-corrosive paints. The classification follows the specific requirements of Note 1 to Chapter 28, which allows for certain natural products to remain within the chemical chapter if they meet the weight threshold for iron content. These pigments are valued for their stability, UV resistance, and non-toxic nature, making them staples in the construction and coatings industries.
- Covers
- Natural ochres (with >70% Fe2O3)
- Siennas and Umbers
- Calcined earth colors
- Micaceous iron oxide pigments
- Natural earth pigments containing high iron content
- Also under 2821.20
- Kremer Pigmente ochres
- Zecchi Colori natural earths
- Sennelier natural pigments
Codes often confused with 2821.20
Common mistake. The most common error is using 2530.90 for natural earth colors that actually meet the 70% iron threshold for 2821.20. Conversely, synthetic iron oxides without the characteristics of earth colors should be under 2821.10. Prepared pigments containing binders or surfactants must be classified in Chapter 32, specifically 3206.49.
Top exporters and importers of HS 282120 (the code used for iron oxide pigments), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 282120 (the code used for iron oxide pigments) in UN Comtrade data was Egypt, with 87% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Indonesia, with 21% of world imports. Italy reports $601M of its chapter 28 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 282120, not only iron oxide pigments.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Egypt $40M 87% of world exports
- 2 India $1.3M 2.9% of world exports
- 3 China $793K 1.7% of world exports
Italy reports $601M of its chapter 28 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
World total: $46M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Indonesia $2.5M 21% of world imports
- 2 Tanzania $1.5M 12% of world imports
- 3 China $706K 5.9% of world imports
World total: $12M 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 iron oxide pigments
Brazil classifies iron oxide pigments under NCM 2821.20.00: HS 2821.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about iron oxide pigments
What is the HS code for Iron oxide pigments?
The HS code for Iron oxide pigments is 282120 (Earth colours; containing 70% or more by weight of combined iron evaluated as Fe2o3). Iron oxide pigments classified as earth colors with 70% or more iron content are under HS code 2821.20.
How do I classify Iron oxide pigments for customs?
Iron oxide pigments is classified under HS code 282120 — Earth colours; containing 70% or more by weight of combined iron evaluated as Fe2o3. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What if the iron content is less than 70%?
If the natural earth color contains less than 70% combined iron by weight, it is typically classified under HS code 2530.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of iron oxide pigments (HS 282120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 282120 (the code used for iron oxide pigments) in UN Comtrade data were Egypt ($40M, 87% of world exports), India ($1.3M) and China ($793K). World exports came to about $46M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Italy reports $601M of its chapter 28 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Which countries are the top importers of iron oxide pigments (HS 282120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 282120 (the code used for iron oxide pigments) in UN Comtrade data were Indonesia ($2.5M, 21% of world imports), Tanzania ($1.5M) and China ($706K). World imports came to about $12M, 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 Iron oxide pigments the same in all countries?
The base HS code 282120 for Iron oxide pigments 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 iron oxide pigments in Brazil?
In Brazil, iron oxide pigments (HS 282120) is classified under NCM 2821.20.00.