HTS US: 2973.XX.XXXX
Description
HTS Code 2973 pertains to natural clays and clay minerals in their uncalcined state. These materials are commonly used in various industries such as ceramics, construction, drilling muds, and as raw materials for the production of refractories and other clay-based products.
Specifically, this heading includes:
- Natural clays: Unprocessed clays extracted directly from the earth, containing variable amounts of impurities such as sand, silt, or organic matter.
- Clay minerals: Minerals that are classified as clay due to their fine particle size and chemical composition, like kaolinite, montmorillonite, and illite, provided they are not calcined or chemically modified.
These products are typically supplied in raw, powdered, or lump form and have not undergone any thermal treatment such as calcination.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 29: Organic Chemicals
- Heading 2973: Natural clays and clay minerals (not calcined)
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2973.XX.XXXX– The last digits specify precise types or preparations of natural clays and minerals.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
While no specific sub-codes were found in the database for 2973, the heading is generally subdivided in international nomenclature to reflect various types of natural clays and clay minerals based on mineralogical composition and intended use. Typical subheadings include:
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2973.10 | Kaolin (China clay), not calcined | Highly pure white clay used in ceramics, paper coating, and as filler in plastics. |
2973.10.0000 |
Raw kaolin in powdered or lump form | |
| 2973.20 | Other clays and clay minerals, not calcined | Includes bentonite, montmorillonite, illite and other natural clays used in drilling muds, foundry sand, and absorbents. |
2973.20.0000 |
Raw bentonite and other clays |
What is NOT Classified Here?
It is important to differentiate this heading from related materials, which are excluded:
- Calcined clays and minerals: Clays that have undergone thermal treatment (calcination) fall under different headings.
- Ceramic products: Finished ceramic wares made from clays are classified under Chapter 69.
- Processed or chemically modified clays: Clays that have been chemically treated or used as carriers for chemicals are classified elsewhere.
- Other mineral products: Non-clay minerals and synthetic substitutes are not included.
Notes
- Import Regulations: Natural clays may be subject to phytosanitary or environmental controls depending on country of origin and intended use.
- Duty Rates: Vary by subheading and country of import; consult the current USHTS for specific tariff schedules.
- Applications: Clays classified here serve as raw materials in numerous industrial processes including paper, paint, rubber, and cosmetics.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of raw, uncalcined kaolin clay from Brazil.US HTS Code:
2973.10.0000(Kaolin, not calcined)Unit of Quantity: Metric Tons
General Duty Rate: See current USHTS schedule (may vary by trade agreements)
Additional Requirements: Import permits and possible mineral content certification.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2825: Hydrated aluminum oxides (used in alumina production)
- HTS 2508: Clays, including kaolin, calcined or chemically treated
- HTS 6909: Ceramic wares made from clay
- HTS 3806: Other chemical products derived from clays or minerals
