HS Code for Musk

Musk is classified under HS code 0510.00. This heading covers animal products such as ambergris, castoreum, civet, and musk, as well as various glands and animal secretions used in the preparation of pharmaceutical products. These items are typically fresh, chilled, frozen, or otherwise provisionally preserved. Musk is a glandular secretion from animals like the musk deer, valued for its scent and medicinal properties. The classification in Chapter 5 (Products of animal origin, not elsewhere specified or included) is appropriate because musk is a raw animal product that has not undergone significant processing into a finished perfume or medicament. The Harmonized System places these rare animal secretions in 0510.00 to distinguish them from edible animal products or processed chemicals. This code is critical for monitoring the trade of animal-derived substances, many of which are subject to CITES regulations.

Products Included

• Natural musk pods from musk deer
• Dried musk grains
• Musk secretions in liquid or paste form
• Ambergris (sperm whale secretion)
• Castoreum (beaver secretion)
• Civet (civet cat secretion)
• Animal glands used for pharmaceutical purposes

Common Misclassification

Musk is frequently misclassified under HS code 3301, which covers essential oils and resinoids. While musk is used in perfumery, 3301 is for vegetable-based extracts, whereas 0510.00 is for animal-based secretions. Another common error is using HS code 2932 or 2933 for synthetic musk. Synthetic musk is a chemically defined compound and must be classified in Chapter 29. Finally, if the musk is prepared as a finished medicine, it would move to Chapter 30.

FAQ

What is the HS code for musk?

The HS code for natural musk and similar animal secretions is 0510.00.

Is synthetic musk classified under the same code?

No, synthetic musk is a chemical product and is typically classified under HS code 2932.99 or similar codes in Chapter 29, depending on its chemical structure.