HS Code for Sea salt

Sea salt is classified under HS code 2501.00. This heading is part of Chapter 25, which covers salt, sulfur, earths and stone, and other mineral products. Heading 2501 is a comprehensive category that includes all forms of sodium chloride. It explicitly mentions salt obtained from sea water, whether by solar evaporation or other industrial processes. The classification is straightforward because the heading text explicitly includes "sea water" and "salt (including table salt and denatured salt)." Even if the sea salt is refined, washed, or has added anti-caking agents or iodine (iodized salt), it remains within this heading. The Harmonized System does not differentiate between sea salt and rock salt at the four-digit level, nor does it distinguish based on the purity level, provided the substance remains essentially sodium chloride. This classification applies to bulk industrial sea salt as well as small containers of gourmet sea salt intended for retail sale, as long as no other flavoring ingredients are added.

Products Included

• Solar sea salt
• Refined sea salt
• Fleur de sel
• Celtic sea salt
• Sea water (natural or concentrated)
• Iodized sea salt for table use

Common Misclassification

Sea salt is often misclassified under HS code 2103.90 if it is mixed with spices or herbs to create a "seasoning salt." Once significant flavoring ingredients are added, it moves from Chapter 25 to Chapter 21. Additionally, "bath salts" intended for cosmetic use are classified under 3307.30, even if they are composed primarily of sea salt, because their intended use and presentation change the classification.

FAQ

What is the HS code for sea salt?

The HS code for sea salt, including refined and table versions, is 2501.00.

Is sea water classified under the same code?

Yes, HS code 2501.00 explicitly includes sea water as well as the salt extracted from it through evaporation.