Product classification

HS code for Magnesium chloride: 2827.31

Chlorides, of magnesium.

Classification of magnesium chloride under HS 2827.31

Magnesium chloride is classified under HS code 2827.31 as a specific inorganic chemical compound. Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System covers inorganic chemicals, and Heading 2827 is dedicated to chlorides, chloride oxides, chloride hydroxides, bromides, and iodides. Within this heading, the system provides specific subheadings for various metal chlorides. Magnesium chloride (MgCl2) is explicitly assigned to 2827.31. This classification applies regardless of whether the product is in its anhydrous form or as a hydrate, such as the common hexahydrate (MgCl2·6H2O). To be classified here, the substance must be a separate chemically defined element or compound, as per Note 1 to Chapter 28. If the magnesium chloride is presented as a natural brine or unrefined sea salt, it might be classified under Chapter 25 (Heading 2501). However, purified magnesium chloride used for industrial, pharmaceutical, or de-icing purposes is strictly kept within 2827.31. The classification is essential for monitoring the trade of chemical precursors and industrial salts used in the production of magnesium metal and various chemical processes, including dust control and food preparation (as a coagulant for tofu).

Covers
  • Anhydrous magnesium chloride
  • Magnesium chloride hexahydrate
  • Purified magnesium chloride flakes
  • Industrial grade magnesium chloride pellets
  • Magnesium chloride solution (chemically pure)
Also under 2827.31
  • Dead Sea Works Magnesium Chloride
  • Compass Minerals Magnesium Chloride
  • Nedmag Magnesium Chloride
  • AkzoNobel Magnesium Chloride

Codes often confused with 2827.31

Common mistake. Magnesium chloride is sometimes misclassified under 2501.00 if it is part of a natural salt mixture or brine. It may also be confused with 3824.99 if it is part of a prepared chemical mixture for de-icing that contains other additives. Furthermore, if it is prepared as a medicament for retail sale, it would be classified in Chapter 30. However, as a pure chemical compound, 2827.31 is the only correct code.

2501.00Salt (including table salt and denatured salt); pure sodium chloride whether or not in aqueous solution; sea water3824.99Chemical products, mixtures and preparations; n.e.c. heading 3824

Top exporters and importers of HS 282731 (the code used for magnesium chloride), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 282731 (the code used for magnesium chloride) in UN Comtrade data was Israel, with 19% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 22% 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 282731, not only magnesium chloride.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 Israel $30M
  2. 2 China $27M
  3. 3 Netherlands $21M

World total: $154M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 United States $40M
  2. 2 Canada $13M
  3. 3 South Korea $13M

World total: $180M 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 magnesium chloride

Brazil splits HS 2827.31 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about magnesium chloride

What is the HS code for Magnesium chloride?

The HS code for Magnesium chloride is 282731 (Chlorides; of magnesium). The HS code for magnesium chloride is 2827.31.

How do I classify Magnesium chloride for customs?

Magnesium chloride is classified under HS code 282731 — Chlorides; of magnesium. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Does this code include magnesium chloride used for de-icing?

Yes, if it is the pure chemical compound. If it is a complex mixture with other anti-caking agents or chemicals, it might fall under 3824.

Which countries are the top exporters of magnesium chloride (HS 282731)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 282731 (the code used for magnesium chloride) in UN Comtrade data were Israel ($30M, 19% of world exports), China ($27M) and the Netherlands ($21M). World exports came to about $154M, 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 magnesium chloride (HS 282731)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 282731 (the code used for magnesium chloride) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($40M, 22% of world imports), Canada ($13M) and South Korea ($13M). World imports came to about $180M, 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 Magnesium chloride the same in all countries?

The base HS code 282731 for Magnesium chloride 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 magnesium chloride in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 282731 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for magnesium chloride depends on the product's details: 2827.31.10 (Magnesium chloride under 98% MgCl2, Ca max 0.5%), 2827.31.90 (Other magnesium chloride).