HS Code for Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is classified under HS code 2836.30, which falls within Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System. This chapter is dedicated to inorganic chemicals and separate chemically defined compounds. Heading 2836 specifically covers carbonates, peroxocarbonates, and commercial ammonium carbonate containing ammonium carbamate. Sodium bicarbonate, also known as sodium hydrogen carbonate (NaHCO3), is explicitly identified in subheading 2836.30. For a product to be classified here, it must meet the criteria of a separate chemically defined compound as outlined in Note 1 to Chapter 28. This means the substance must be a single chemical entity, although it may contain certain impurities or be dissolved in water. The classification is straightforward for pure technical, food, or pharmaceutical grades of sodium bicarbonate. However, if the sodium bicarbonate is mixed with other substances to create a preparation, such as a leavening agent for baking, it may be moved to a different chapter entirely. The precision of this classification ensures that the chemical is tracked correctly for industrial, food safety, and environmental regulations across international borders.

Products Included

• Technical grade sodium bicarbonate
• Food grade sodium bicarbonate (Baking soda)
• USP/Pharmaceutical grade sodium hydrogen carbonate
• Sodium bicarbonate in aqueous solution
• Refined sodium bicarbonate powder
• Granular sodium bicarbonate for industrial use

Common Misclassification

A frequent misclassification occurs between sodium bicarbonate (2836.30) and sodium carbonate (2836.20), also known as soda ash. While chemically related, they are distinct compounds with different industrial applications. Another common error is classifying prepared baking powder under 2836.30. Baking powder is a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and an acidifying agent (like cream of tartar), which places it under HS code 3824.71 or 3824.99 as a prepared binder or chemical product. Additionally, natural sodium carbonate (trona) should be classified under heading 2530 rather than the chemical heading 2836.

FAQ

What is the HS code for sodium bicarbonate?

The international HS code for sodium bicarbonate (sodium hydrogen carbonate) is 2836.30.

Can baking powder be classified under this HS code?

No, baking powder is a mixture and is typically classified under heading 3824. HS code 2836.30 is reserved for pure sodium bicarbonate that is not mixed with other leavening agents.