HTS US: 2604.00.00.XX
Description
The HTS code 2604 encompasses all categories of nickel ores and concentrates. These materials are raw mineral products extracted from natural sources, containing nickel either in significant amounts or combined with other metals. The heading covers both the unprocessed ores and concentrates that are prepared for further industrial use.
The classification is primarily divided into two major types based on metal content:
- Nickel content: Concentrates or ores predominantly containing nickel, usually intended for extraction and refining of nickel metal.
- Other metal content: Ores or concentrates with significant quantities of metals other than nickel, which may require different processing or classification.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II: Vegetable Products (Chapters 6–14) — Note: Although ores belong to Section V, HTS codes start from Chapter 26 here.
- Chapter 26: Ores, Slag and Ash
- Heading 2604: Nickel ores and concentrates
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2604.00.00.XX– The last two digits specify the content type, such as nickel or other metals.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The four-digit HS heading 2604 is further subdivided into detailed 10-digit HTS codes based on the metal content found in the ores and concentrates, as follows:
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2604.00.00 | Nickel ores and concentrates | General classification for all nickel ores and concentrates before further specification. |
2604.00.00.40 |
Nickel content | Ores and concentrates containing predominantly nickel, used as raw materials for nickel extraction. |
2604.00.00.80 |
Other metal content | Nickel ores or concentrates with significant quantities of other metals besides nickel, which may affect processing and tariff treatment. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, these items fall outside heading 2604:
- Refined nickel metal: Classified under metal product chapters, not as ores or concentrates.
- Nickel compounds and salts: These are chemical products found under different HS codes such as Chapter 28.
- Slag and ash: Residual by-products of metal extraction, classified separately in Chapter 26 but under other headings.
Notes
- Import Regulations: Importation of nickel ores and concentrates may be subject to environmental and safety regulations depending on the country of origin and destination.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates for nickel ores and concentrates vary depending on the specific content and trade agreements. Often, ores with predominantly nickel content may have different tariff treatment compared to those with other metals.
- Environmental Considerations: Some jurisdictions require special permits due to potential environmental impact of mining and processing nickel-bearing ores.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of nickel ores with high nickel content from Indonesia.US HTS Code:
2604.00.00.40(Nickel content)Unit of Quantity: Metric ton (MT)
General Duty Rate: Refer to current USHTS schedule (subject to trade agreements and quotas)
Additional Requirements: Environmental compliance certificates and import permits as required by US authorities.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2603: Copper ores and concentrates.
- HTS 2605: Cobalt ores and concentrates.
- HTS 2606: Aluminium ores and concentrates.
- HTS 2805: Nickel and nickel alloys, refined metal products.
