HTS US: 2616.XX.XX.XX
Description
This heading covers precious metal ores and concentrates, primarily including silver ores but also encompassing other precious metal-bearing ores. The classification is detailed by the type of metal content present in the ores and concentrates.
The products under this heading are raw mineral materials containing valuable precious metals, which are extracted for further refining and use in various industries such as jewelry, electronics, and investment.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II: Vegetable Products (Chapters 06-14) — Note: Precious metals ores belong to a different section, Section II is illustrative for context only.
- Chapter 26: Ores, slag and ash
- Heading 2616: Precious metal ores and concentrates
- US HTS Code (10-digit and beyond):
2616.XX.XX.XX– The final digits specify the exact type of ore and metal content.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The heading 2616 is divided into subheadings based on the type of precious metal ores and the specific metal content found in the concentrates.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2616.10.00 | Silver ores and concentrates | Ores primarily containing silver and their concentrates. |
| 2616.10.00.10 | Copper content | Silver ores with significant copper presence. |
| 2616.10.00.20 | Lead content | Silver ores containing lead as a notable component. |
| 2616.10.00.30 | Zinc content | Silver ores with zinc content. |
| 2616.10.00.40 | Silver content | Ores with predominant silver content. |
| 2616.10.00.80 | Gold content | Silver ores also containing gold. |
| 2616.90.00 | Other precious metal ores and concentrates | Includes precious metal ores other than silver ores. |
| 2616.90.00.10 | Copper content | Other precious metal ores containing copper. |
| 2616.90.00.20 | Lead content | Other ores with significant lead content. |
| 2616.90.00.30 | Zinc content | Other precious metal ores with zinc content. |
| 2616.90.00.40 | Gold content | Ores with predominant gold content other than silver ores. |
| 2616.90.00.50 | Other precious metal content | Ores containing other precious metals such as platinum group metals. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, the following are excluded from this heading:
- Ores and concentrates of non-precious metals such as iron, aluminum, or base metals except when associated with precious metals as noted.
- Refined precious metals in metallic form or powders, which are classified under Chapter 71.
- Slag, ash, and residues from metal extraction processes are classified under other headings.
Notes
- Extraction and Refining: The ores and concentrates classified under 2616 are raw materials destined for metallurgical processing to extract precious metals.
- Duty Rates: Import duty rates vary by specific 10-digit HTS code depending on the type of ore and metal content. Consult the current USHTS for detailed rates.
- Trade and Regulations: Some precious metal ores may be subject to additional import/export controls or licensing due to their strategic value.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of silver ore concentrates with high silver content.US HTS Code:
2616.10.00.40(Silver content)Unit of Quantity: Metric ton (t)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS — duty may be minimal or duty-free depending on trade agreements and quantity.
Additional Requirements: Mineral origin documentation and testing certificates may be required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2601: Iron ores and concentrates
- HTS 2602: Manganese ores and concentrates
- HTS 2615: Niobium, tantalum, vanadium, chromium, titanium ores and concentrates
- HTS 2620: Ash and residues containing precious metals
