Product classification
HS code for Mordant dye: 3204.12
Dyes, acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon.
Classification of mordant dye under HS 3204.12
Mordant dyes are classified under HS code 3204.12 because they represent a specific category of synthetic organic coloring matter that requires a fixing agent, known as a mordant, to adhere to the textile fiber. The Harmonized System organizes Chapter 32 to cover tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins, and their derivatives. Within this chapter, heading 3204 is dedicated to synthetic organic coloring matter. Subheading 3204.12 specifically groups acid dyes and mordant dyes together. This classification is based on the chemical application method where the dye forms a complex with a metallic salt (such as chromium, aluminum, or iron) already present on the fiber or added during the dyeing process. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the dye is in a powder, granule, or liquid form, provided it is a preparation based on these specific synthetic organic compounds. The inclusion of mordant dyes in this code is justified by their chemical structure, which typically contains hydroxyl or carboxyl groups capable of chelating with metal ions to produce insoluble color lakes within the fiber structure.
- Covers
- Alizarin and its synthetic derivatives
- Chrome dyes used for wool and silk
- Anthracene-based mordant dyes
- Preparations based on mordant coloring matter
- Synthetic organic dyes requiring metallic salts for fixation
- Also under 3204.12
- Dystar Telon
- Archroma Nylosan
- Huntsman Erionyl
- Ciba Tectilon
Codes often confused with 3204.12
Common mistake. Mordant dyes are frequently confused with disperse dyes classified under HS code 3204.11 or basic dyes under 3204.13. The primary distinction lies in the chemical mechanism of attachment; disperse dyes are non-ionic and used for synthetic fibers like polyester, while mordant dyes require a metal ion bridge. Additionally, if these dyes are put up in forms or packings for retail sale, they must be classified under HS code 3212.90 rather than 3204.12.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320412 (the code used for mordant dye), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320412 (the code used for mordant dye) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% 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 320412, not only mordant dye.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $222M 29% of world exports
- 2 China $68M 8.9% of world exports
- 3 Germany $61M 8.1% of world exports
World total: $760M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $118M 14% of world imports
- 2 Italy $70M 8.2% of world imports
- 3 United States $61M 7.1% of world imports
World total: $849M 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 mordant dye
Brazil splits HS 3204.12 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 3204.12.10Acid dyes, premetallised or not, and preparations
- 3204.12.20Mordant dyes and preparations based thereon
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about mordant dye
What is the HS code for Mordant dye?
The HS code for Mordant dye is 320412 (Dyes; acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon). The primary HS code for mordant dyes and preparations based on them is 3204.12.
How do I classify Mordant dye for customs?
Mordant dye is classified under HS code 320412 — Dyes; acid, whether or not premetallised and preparations based thereon, mordant dyes and preparations based thereon. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include the mordant chemicals themselves?
No, the metallic salts used as mordants, such as potassium dichromate or aluminum sulfate, are classified in Chapter 28 as inorganic chemicals.
Which countries are the top exporters of mordant dye (HS 320412)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320412 (the code used for mordant dye) in UN Comtrade data were India ($222M, 29% of world exports), China ($68M) and Germany ($61M). World exports came to about $760M, 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 mordant dye (HS 320412)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320412 (the code used for mordant dye) in UN Comtrade data were China ($118M, 14% of world imports), Italy ($70M) and the United States ($61M). World imports came to about $849M, 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 Mordant dye the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320412 for Mordant dye 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 mordant dye in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 320412 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for mordant dye depends on the product's details: 3204.12.10 (Acid dyes, premetallised or not, and preparations), 3204.12.20 (Mordant dyes and preparations based thereon).