HS Code for Wrought germanium

Wrought germanium is classified under HS code 8112.99, which serves as the residual subheading for several specialty metals within Heading 8112, including gallium, germanium, indium, niobium, and vanadium. Germanium is a lustrous, hard, grayish-white metalloid that occupies a unique position in industrial applications due to its semiconducting properties. For customs purposes, the classification is governed by the physical state of the metal. Unwrought germanium, typically in the form of ingots, pellets, or powders, is classified under 8112.92. Wrought germanium, however, refers to the metal after it has been subjected to mechanical working or further fabrication. This includes germanium that has been shaped into rods, plates, or discs, or has been polished and cut for specific industrial uses, such as in infrared optics or fiber-optic systems. The classification under 8112.99 is determined by General Interpretative Rules 1 and 6. It is important to note that while germanium is a semiconductor, the classification in Chapter 81 is reserved for the metal and its articles in their base form. If the germanium has been doped for use in electronics or has been integrated into a discrete electronic component like a diode or transistor, it may be classified elsewhere, specifically in Chapter 85. However, for the wrought metal itself, 8112.99 remains the correct and legally binding code for international trade.

Products Included

• Germanium plates and sheets
• Germanium rods and profiles
• Germanium wire
• Polished germanium discs for optics
• Germanium tubes and pipes
• Articles manufactured from germanium

Common Misclassification

Germanium is frequently misclassified under 8112.92, which is the code for unwrought germanium and powders. Another common error involves HS code 8541.10 through 8541.60, which covers semiconductor devices. If the germanium is merely a wrought shape and not a functional electronic component, it must stay in 8112.99. Optical elements of germanium may also be confused with Chapter 90 (optical instruments), but unmounted elements remain in Chapter 81.

FAQ

What is the HS code for wrought germanium?

Wrought germanium and articles made of germanium are classified under HS code 8112.99.

Is germanium powder classified as wrought?

No, germanium powder is specifically classified as unwrought under HS code 8112.92.