HS Code for Potassium carbonate

Potassium carbonate is classified under HS code 2836.40. This classification is found in Chapter 28 (Inorganic chemicals), specifically under heading 2836, which covers carbonates, peroxocarbonates, and commercial ammonium carbonate containing ammonium carbamate. Potassium carbonate, often referred to as potash or pearl ash, is a white salt that is soluble in water but insoluble in ethanol. It is primarily used in the production of glass, soap, and as a buffering agent in various industrial processes. The classification is determined by GRI 1, as the subheading 2836.40 specifically names potassium carbonates. This includes both the anhydrous form and the hydrated forms (such as the sesquihydrate). The product is classified here provided it is a separate chemically defined compound, which is the standard requirement for most items in Chapter 28.

Products Included

• Anhydrous potassium carbonate
• Potassium carbonate sesquihydrate
• Pearl ash (refined potassium carbonate)
• Potash (when referring specifically to K2CO3)

Common Misclassification

Potassium carbonate is sometimes misclassified under 3104.20 or 3104.30. These codes belong to Chapter 31, which covers fertilizers. While potassium carbonate contains potassium, it is rarely used as a primary fertilizer in its pure form; if it is intended for use as a fertilizer or is part of a fertilizer mix, it might be moved to Chapter 31, but pure chemical K2CO3 belongs in 2836.40. It is also occasionally confused with potassium bicarbonate (potassium hydrogen carbonate), which is classified under 2836.40 in some jurisdictions but may be distinguished in others, though the 4-digit heading 2836 remains the same.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Potassium carbonate?

The HS code for Potassium carbonate is 2836.40.

Is food-grade potassium carbonate classified differently?

No, food-grade potassium carbonate (used as an acidity regulator or in baking) is still classified under 2836.40, provided it is not mixed with other substances that would change its character to a prepared food additive (Chapter 21).