Product classification
HS code for Reactive dye: 3204.16
Dyes, reactive dyes and preparations based thereon.
Classification of reactive dye under HS 3204.16
Reactive dyes are classified under HS code 3204.16. This classification is found in Chapter 32, which covers tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins and their derivatives, dyes, pigments, and other coloring matter. Heading 3204 specifically addresses synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined. Subheading 3204.16 is dedicated to reactive dyes and preparations based on these dyes. Reactive dyes are unique because they form a covalent bond with the substrate (usually textile fibers like cotton, wool, or nylon) during the dyeing process, resulting in exceptionally high colorfastness. This code includes the pure dye molecules as well as commercial preparations that may contain diluents, surfactants, or other additives used to standardize the strength and properties of the dye. The classification applies regardless of the physical form (powder, liquid, or paste) as long as the chemical nature of the coloring agent is reactive.
- Covers
- Fiber-reactive dyes
- Vinyl sulfone dyes
- Monochlorotriazine dyes
- Reactive dye preparations
- Cold-brand reactive dyes
- Also under 3204.16
- Dystar Remazol dyes
- Huntsman Terasil dyes
- Archroma Drimarene dyes
- Atul Reactive dyes
Codes often confused with 3204.16
Common mistake. Reactive dyes are often confused with other subheadings under 3204. For instance, HS code 3204.11 is for disperse dyes, and 3204.12 is for acid dyes. Each of these categories depends on the chemical interaction between the dye and the fiber. Another common error is using 3204.17, which is for synthetic organic pigments. Unlike dyes, pigments do not dissolve and do not bond chemically with the fiber in the same manner as reactive dyes.
Top exporters and importers of HS 320416 (the code used for reactive dye), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 320416 (the code used for reactive dye) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 41% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Bangladesh, with about 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 320416, not only reactive dye.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $556M 41% of world exports
- 2 China $189M 14% of world exports
- 3 South Korea $187M 14% of world exports
World total: $1.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Bangladesh* ~$251M 18% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 2 Türkiye $155M 11% of world imports
- 3 Pakistan $107M 7.6% of world imports
World total: $1.4B 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 reactive dye
Brazil classifies reactive dye under NCM 3204.16.00: HS 3204.16 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about reactive dye
What is the HS code for Reactive dye?
The HS code for Reactive dye is 320416 (Dyes; reactive dyes and preparations based thereon). The HS code for reactive dyes and preparations based on them is 3204.16.
How do I classify Reactive dye for customs?
Reactive dye is classified under HS code 320416 — Dyes; reactive dyes and preparations based thereon. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can liquid reactive dyes be classified under this code?
Yes, HS code 3204.16 covers reactive dyes in all physical forms, including powders, pastes, and concentrated liquid solutions.
Which countries are the top exporters of reactive dye (HS 320416)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 320416 (the code used for reactive dye) in UN Comtrade data were India ($556M, 41% of world exports), China ($189M) and South Korea ($187M). World exports came to about $1.3B, 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 reactive dye (HS 320416)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 320416 (the code used for reactive dye) in UN Comtrade data were Bangladesh (about $251M, 18% of world imports), Türkiye ($155M) and Pakistan ($107M). World imports came to about $1.4B, 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 Reactive dye the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320416 for Reactive dye 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 reactive dye in Brazil?
In Brazil, reactive dye (HS 320416) is classified under NCM 3204.16.00.