HS Code for Phosphoric acid

Phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids are classified under HS code 2809.20. This code is part of Chapter 28, which encompasses inorganic chemicals. Heading 2809 specifically covers diphosphorus pentaoxide, phosphoric acid, and polyphosphoric acids, whether or not chemically defined. Phosphoric acid (orthophosphoric acid) is a major industrial chemical used in the production of fertilizers, detergents, and food additives. The classification is determined by the chemical identity of the acid. Even when the acid is of high purity (food grade) or used in specific industrial applications, it remains under 2809.20 unless it is prepared as a finished product like a fertilizer mixture. Polyphosphoric acids, which are polymers of phosphoric acid with lower water content, are also included in this subheading. The classification is based on the chemical structure of the phosphorus-oxygen-hydrogen compound. Importers should be aware that while phosphoric acid is a precursor for many fertilizers, the pure acid is always classified in Chapter 28, whereas the resulting fertilizer salts or mixtures are classified in Chapter 31.

Products Included

• Orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4)
• Pyrophosphoric acid
• Metaphosphoric acid
• Polyphosphoric acids
• Food-grade phosphoric acid
• Technical-grade phosphoric acid

Common Misclassification

Phosphoric acid is sometimes misclassified under 2809.10, which is reserved for diphosphorus pentaoxide (the anhydride of phosphoric acid). It is also occasionally confused with 3103 if the importer assumes all phosphorus-based agricultural chemicals belong in the fertilizer chapter. However, as a discrete inorganic acid, it must stay in 2809.20.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Phosphoric acid?

The HS code for phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids is 2809.20.

Is food-grade phosphoric acid classified differently?

No, the HS code 2809.20 applies to phosphoric acid regardless of its purity level, including food-grade and electronic-grade variations.