HS Code for Potassium nitrate

Potassium nitrate is classified under HS code 2834.21. This code is found under heading 2834, which covers nitrites and nitrates. Specifically, the subheading 2834.21 is reserved for nitrates of potassium. The classification is determined by the chemical identity of the product as an inorganic salt of nitric acid. Potassium nitrate, commonly known as saltpeter, is a separate chemically defined compound, which generally places it in Chapter 28. However, there is a significant caveat regarding its use as a fertilizer. While many potassium salts used as fertilizers are classified in Chapter 31, potassium nitrate is specifically mentioned in the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 28. According to the General Rules for Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1, the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes are paramount. Since 2834.21 specifically names potassium nitrate, it is the primary classification for the pure chemical.

Products Included

• Pure potassium nitrate crystals or powder
• Technical grade potassium nitrate for industrial use
• Food-grade potassium nitrate (E252) used for curing meats
• Potassium nitrate used in the manufacture of explosives or pyrotechnics
• Reagent grade potassium nitrate for laboratory analysis

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification for potassium nitrate is under Chapter 31, specifically HS code 3105.40 or 3104.90, when it is intended for use as a fertilizer. While Chapter 31 covers mineral or chemical fertilizers, pure potassium nitrate is generally excluded from Chapter 31 unless it is put up in tablets or similar forms or in packages of a gross weight not exceeding 10 kg. Another common error is confusing it with potassium nitrite, which is classified under HS code 2834.10.

FAQ

What is the HS code for potassium nitrate?

The standard HS code for potassium nitrate is 2834.21, which covers nitrates of potassium.

Is potassium nitrate classified as a fertilizer in HS code 3104?

Generally, no. While potassium chloride and potassium sulphate are in 3104, potassium nitrate is specifically classified in 2834.21 unless it is in a specific retail form or part of a multi-nutrient fertilizer mix.