HS Code for Natural magnesite

Natural magnesite, or magnesium carbonate, is classified under HS code 2519.10. This classification falls within Chapter 25, which covers mineral products in their crude or minimally processed state. Heading 2519 specifically deals with magnesium carbonate (magnesite) and various forms of magnesia. The subheading 2519.10 is reserved for the natural mineral form of magnesium carbonate. This includes the mineral as it is found in nature, potentially having undergone basic physical processes like crushing, grinding, or washing to remove impurities, provided these processes do not alter the chemical structure of the mineral. The classification is strictly for the carbonate form (MgCO3) rather than the oxide form (MgO). Under the General Rules of Interpretation, specifically GRI 1, the product must meet the description of natural magnesium carbonate. If the material is chemically precipitated magnesium carbonate, it is excluded from Chapter 25 and must be classified in Chapter 28. The purity of the natural magnesite can vary, but as long as it is a naturally occurring mineral and has not been calcined (heated to high temperatures), it remains under 2519.10. This material is a primary source for the production of magnesium metal and various refractory materials used in steelmaking.

Products Included

• Crude natural magnesite ore
• Natural magnesium carbonate rocks
• Crushed or screened natural magnesite
• Washed natural magnesite concentrates
• Lump magnesite for industrial use

Common Misclassification

Natural magnesite is most commonly misclassified under HS code 2519.90. This subheading covers "other" forms of magnesia, including fused magnesia, dead-burned (sintered) magnesia, and caustic-calcined magnesia. These are products that have undergone significant thermal processing. Another common error is using HS code 2836.99 for precipitated magnesium carbonate, which is a chemically manufactured product. Importers must distinguish between the raw mineral (2519.10) and the processed oxide (2519.90).

FAQ

What is the HS code for natural magnesite?

The HS code for natural magnesium carbonate (magnesite) is 2519.10.

What is the difference between 2519.10 and 2519.90?

2519.10 is for the raw, natural mineral (carbonate), while 2519.90 is for processed magnesia (oxide) that has been fused or dead-burned at high temperatures.