HS Code for Kaolin

Kaolin and other kaolinic clays are classified under HS code 2507.00. This classification is situated within Chapter 25, which covers salt, sulfur, earths, and stone, as well as plastering materials, lime, and cement. The Harmonized System classifies kaolin here because it is a naturally occurring mineral earth consisting primarily of kaolinite. According to the Chapter 25 notes, products are generally classified in this chapter only when they are in the crude state or have been washed, crushed, ground, powdered, levigated, sifted, screened, or concentrated by flotation or other mechanical or physical processes. Heading 2507.00 specifically includes kaolin that has been calcined. Calcination is a thermal treatment process used to remove volatile impurities or to produce specific physical characteristics required for industrial applications, such as in the manufacture of paper, ceramics, or rubber. As long as the kaolin has not been mixed with other materials to form a specific preparation or chemical compound, it remains under this heading regardless of the heat treatment applied.

Products Included

• China clay (Kaolin)
• Calcined kaolin
• Washed kaolinic clay
• Powdered kaolin for industrial use
• Levigated kaolin

Common Misclassification

Kaolin is often misclassified under HS code 3802.90, which covers activated natural mineral products. If kaolin has been chemically treated to alter its surface structure for increased adsorption, it is no longer considered a natural earth of Chapter 25. Additionally, it may be confused with HS code 2508.10 (Bentonite) or other clays. While both are in Chapter 25, kaolin is specifically isolated in 2507.00 due to its unique mineralogical composition and industrial importance.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Kaolin?

The HS code for kaolin and other kaolinic clays, whether or not calcined, is 2507.00.

One more relevant question

Does calcining kaolin change its HS code? No, unlike many other minerals where heat treatment might change the classification, the text of heading 2507.00 explicitly includes calcined kaolin.