Product classification
HS code for Phosphorus pentoxide: 2809.10
Diphosphorus pentoxide.
Classification of phosphorus pentoxide under HS 2809.10
Phosphorus pentoxide, scientifically referred to as diphosphorus pentoxide (P4O10), is classified under HS code 2809.10. This code is found within heading 2809, which specifically includes diphosphorus pentaoxide, phosphoric acid, and polyphosphoric acids. Phosphorus pentoxide is a powerful desiccant and dehydrating agent, appearing as a white crystalline powder. Its classification is straightforward because heading 2809 is a "named" heading for this specific oxide. In the hierarchy of the Harmonized System, a specific named heading takes precedence over more general headings like 2811 (other inorganic acids and other inorganic oxygen compounds of non-metals). The classification reflects its role as the anhydride of phosphoric acid, meaning it forms phosphoric acid when reacted with water. This chemical is vital in the synthesis of organic esters and in various laboratory drying applications where moisture removal is critical.
- Covers
- Diphosphorus pentoxide
- Phosphoric anhydride
- Phosphorus(V) oxide
- P2O5 (empirical formula)
- Also under 2809.10
- ICL Phosphorus Pentoxide
- Arkema P2O5
- Lanxess P2O5
- Sigma-Aldrich Phosphorus Pentoxide
- Merck KGaA P2O5
Codes often confused with 2809.10
Common mistake. Phosphorus pentoxide is sometimes confused with other phosphorus oxides that fall under HS code 2811.29, such as phosphorus trioxide. However, because 2809.10 specifically names diphosphorus pentoxide, it must be used. It is also frequently confused with phosphoric acid (HS code 2809.20). While they are in the same heading, the pentoxide is the solid anhydride, whereas the acid is the hydrated form. Another error involves confusing it with phosphate salts, such as sodium triphosphate (HS code 2835.31), which are inorganic salts rather than pure oxides. Ensuring the product is identified as the oxide rather than a salt or acid is key to correct tariff application and regulatory compliance.
Top exporters and importers of HS 280910 (the code used for phosphorus pentoxide), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 280910 (the code used for phosphorus pentoxide) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 67% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Spain, with 18% 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 280910, not only phosphorus pentoxide.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $28M 67% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $6.1M 15% of world exports
- 3 India $5.0M 12% of world exports
World total: $41M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Spain $9.0M 18% of world imports
- 2 Germany $7.9M 16% of world imports
- 3 India $7.8M 16% of world imports
World total: $50M 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 code for phosphorus pentoxide
Brazil classifies phosphorus pentoxide under NCM 2809.10.00: HS 2809.10 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about phosphorus pentoxide
What is the HS code for Phosphorus pentoxide?
The HS code for Phosphorus pentoxide is 280910 (Diphosphorus pentoxide). The HS code for phosphorus pentoxide is 2809.10.
How do I classify Phosphorus pentoxide for customs?
Phosphorus pentoxide is classified under HS code 280910 — Diphosphorus pentoxide. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is phosphorus pentoxide the same as phosphoric acid?
No, phosphorus pentoxide (2809.10) is the anhydride that reacts with water to form phosphoric acid (2809.20).
Which countries are the top exporters of phosphorus pentoxide (HS 280910)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 280910 (the code used for phosphorus pentoxide) in UN Comtrade data were China ($28M, 67% of world exports), the Netherlands ($6.1M) and India ($5.0M). World exports came to about $41M, 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 phosphorus pentoxide (HS 280910)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 280910 (the code used for phosphorus pentoxide) in UN Comtrade data were Spain ($9.0M, 18% of world imports), Germany ($7.9M) and India ($7.8M). World imports came to about $50M, 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 Phosphorus pentoxide the same in all countries?
The base HS code 280910 for Phosphorus pentoxide 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 phosphorus pentoxide in Brazil?
In Brazil, phosphorus pentoxide (HS 280910) is classified under NCM 2809.10.00.