Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Zinc carbonate

2836.99 Carbonates; n.e.c. in heading no. 2836 and other than lithium or strontium
Chemicals
View full HS code details

Zinc carbonate is classified under HS code 2836.99. This code falls under heading 2836, which covers carbonates, peroxocarbonates (percarbonates), and commercial ammonium carbonate. As an inorganic salt consisting of zinc cations and carbonate anions, it is classified based on its chemical composition. Subheading 2836.99 is a residual category for "Other" carbonates that are not specifically named in the preceding subheadings, such as those for lithium, strontium, or sodium. In industrial contexts, "basic zinc carbonate" (a hydroxy carbonate) is also frequently encountered and is classified here as well. The classification follows GRI 1 and GRI 6, ensuring that chemically defined inorganic compounds are grouped by their anionic component. This classification is vital for customs as it separates manufactured chemical salts from natural minerals and ores, which are subject to different trade regulations and duty structures.

Products Included

  • Pure zinc carbonate powder
  • Basic zinc carbonate (Hydrozincite)
  • Synthetic smithsonite
  • Pharmaceutical grade zinc carbonate
  • Industrial zinc carbonate for rubber vulcanization

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs with heading 2608, which covers zinc ores and concentrates. Natural zinc carbonate, known as smithsonite, is classified in Chapter 26 if it is a raw mineral. However, the synthetic or purified chemical version used in industry must be classified in Chapter 28. Another frequent error is confusing zinc carbonate with zinc oxide (HS code 2817.00). While both are used in similar applications like rubber manufacturing and cosmetics, they are chemically distinct. Zinc oxide is an oxide, whereas zinc carbonate contains the carbonate group (CO3), necessitating its placement in heading 2836. Misidentifying the chemical group can lead to incorrect duty payments and delays in customs clearance.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Zinc carbonate?

The HS code for Zinc carbonate is 2836.99, which covers other inorganic carbonates.

Is basic zinc carbonate classified differently?

No, basic zinc carbonate is treated as a carbonate for HS purposes and remains under 2836.99.

Industry

View all codes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Zinc carbonate?

The HS code for Zinc carbonate is 283699 (Carbonates; n.e.c. in heading no. 2836 and other than lithium or strontium).

How do I classify Zinc carbonate for customs?

Zinc carbonate is classified under HS code 283699 — Carbonates; n.e.c. in heading no. 2836 and other than lithium or strontium. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Zinc carbonate the same in all countries?

The base HS code 283699 for Zinc carbonate is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.