HS Code for Magnesium

Magnesium in its elemental or chemical form is classified under HS code 2805.19. This heading covers alkali or alkaline-earth metals, and magnesium is a primary member of the alkaline-earth metal group. The classification under Chapter 28 (Inorganic Chemicals) is appropriate when the magnesium is treated as a chemical element rather than a base metal for structural use. This code is typically used for magnesium of high purity or magnesium intended for chemical reactions and laboratory purposes. The General Rules of Interpretation require that products be classified according to their chemical identity when they are separate chemically defined elements. It is important to distinguish this from magnesium alloys or magnesium in industrial forms like ingots, which are handled in the metals section of the Harmonized System.

Products Included

• High-purity elemental magnesium
• Alkaline-earth metal magnesium
• Magnesium metal for chemical synthesis
• Magnesium in laboratory-grade reagent form

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 8104.11 or 8104.19. Heading 8104 is for magnesium as a base metal in unwrought form (like ingots or slabs). While 2805.19 covers the chemical element, 8104 is used for the metal when it is intended for metallurgical or structural applications. Importers must check the purity and the intended use to decide between the chemical chapter (28) and the base metal chapter (81).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Magnesium?

The HS code for magnesium as an alkaline-earth metal is 2805.19, provided it is being classified as a chemical element.

Is magnesium powder classified under this code?

No, magnesium powders and granules are specifically classified under HS code 8104.30, regardless of their chemical purity, due to their physical form.