HS Code for Natural phosphates

Natural calcium phosphates, natural aluminum calcium phosphates, and phosphatic chalk are classified under HS code 2510.10 when they are in an unground state. This classification is part of Chapter 25, which includes mineral substances in their crude form. Heading 2510 is dedicated to natural phosphates. The distinction between 2510.10 (unground) and 2510.20 (ground) is based on the physical processing of the material. Unground phosphates are typically in the form of crude rocks, nodules, or lumps as extracted from the earth. These materials are primarily used in the production of phosphatic fertilizers or phosphoric acid. The classification requires that the material has not been chemically treated; for example, if the phosphate has been treated with sulfuric acid to produce superphosphates, it would be classified in Chapter 31 as a fertilizer. According to GRI 1, the classification is governed by the physical state (unground) and the chemical composition (natural calcium/aluminum phosphate). This code also includes apatite, a common phosphate mineral. Even if the material has been washed or concentrated to remove impurities, it remains under 2510.10 as long as it has not been pulverized or ground into a fine powder.

Products Included

• Apatite in crude rock form
• Natural calcium phosphate lumps
• Phosphatic chalk (unground)
• Natural aluminum calcium phosphate (crude)
• Tricalcium phosphate of mineral origin

Common Misclassification

Natural phosphates are often misclassified under HS code 2510.20, which is for ground natural phosphates. The difference is purely mechanical (particle size). They are also frequently confused with HS code 3103.11 or 3103.19, which cover superphosphates. Superphosphates are chemically treated minerals and belong in the fertilizer chapter. Additionally, if the phosphate is purified to a high degree for use as a food additive, it may be classified under 2835.26 (calcium phosphate chemicals).

FAQ

What is the HS code for natural phosphates?

The HS code for unground natural calcium phosphates and phosphatic chalk is 2510.10.

Does this code include ground phosphate rock?

No, ground natural phosphates are classified under HS code 2510.20. The 2510.10 code is reserved for the crude, unground state.