HS Code for Mercury compounds

Mercury compounds are classified under HS code 2852.90, following the structured hierarchy of Chapter 28, which deals with inorganic chemicals and precious metal compounds. Heading 2852 is unique because it was created to group mercury compounds—whether inorganic or organic—into a single heading to monitor their global movement more effectively. This is a notable exception to the general rule where organic and inorganic compounds are separated into different chapters (Chapter 29 and Chapter 28, respectively). Subheading 2852.90 serves as the residual category for various mercury compounds that are not specifically listed by name in the 2852.10 subheading (which covers chemically defined compounds). This includes a vast array of chemical substances such as mercury sulfates, nitrates, and various organometallic mercury derivatives used in laboratory reagents or industrial catalysts. The classification is based entirely on the chemical identity of the substance. If a substance is a chemically defined compound containing mercury as a primary constituent, it falls here. The creation of this heading was largely driven by international environmental agreements like the Minamata Convention to ensure better traceability of mercury in its various chemical forms. It is important to note that this heading does not include amalgams, which are alloys of mercury with other metals; those are classified under heading 2853 or Chapter 71 depending on their specific composition and precious metal content.

Products Included

• Mercury chlorides (calomel and corrosive sublimate)
• Mercury oxides (red and yellow)
• Mercury sulfates and nitrates
• Organomercury compounds for laboratory use
• Mercury sulfides (cinnabar)

Common Misclassification

Mercury compounds are often confused with pure elemental mercury, which is classified under 2805.40. The distinction is that 2805.40 is for the liquid metal itself, while 2852.90 is for chemical compounds where mercury is bonded with other elements. Another common misclassification occurs with medicaments containing mercury, which should be classified under heading 3004. Additionally, mercury-based pesticides or disinfectants are often incorrectly placed here instead of heading 3808, which covers products put up for retail sale for those specific purposes.

FAQ

What is the HS code for mercury compounds?

The primary HS code for inorganic or organic compounds of mercury is 2852.90, provided they are not amalgams.

How do I distinguish between 2805 and 2852?

Use 2805.40 for pure, liquid elemental mercury. Use 2852.90 for mercury that has been chemically reacted with other elements to form a compound, such as mercury oxide or mercury chloride.