HTS Code 283421: Of potassium — 2026 US Tariff Rates
Quick Answer
HTS 283421 = Of potassium
Duty rate: Free · Unit: 28-digit · Column 1: Free
Complete Classification Table
All 8-digit and 10-digit tariff codes under HTS subheading 283421. Use this table to find the correct statistical suffix and applicable duty rate for your product.
| HTS Code | Full Description | General Rate | Special Rate | Column 2 Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2834.21.00.00 |
Of potassium | Free | — | Free |
Chapter 28 Frequently Asked Questions
What is TSCA and how does it affect chemical imports?
The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), administered by EPA, requires that all chemical substances imported into the US be listed on the TSCA Inventory or qualify for an exemption. Importers must certify TSCA compliance at entry. Importing chemicals not on the TSCA Inventory without EPA review is prohibited.
Are rare earth elements subject to export controls?
Rare earth elements and compounds themselves are not generally subject to US export controls, but China (the dominant producer) imposes export restrictions and quotas on many rare earth products. For US importers, sourcing diversification is a key supply chain strategy. Check BIS regulations for dual-use applications.
How do I distinguish between organic and inorganic chemicals for HTS classification?
Inorganic chemicals (Chapter 28) are compounds that do not contain carbon-carbon bonds, with exceptions for carbonates, cyanides, carbides, and certain other carbon-containing compounds classified as inorganic. Organic chemicals (Chapter 29) contain carbon-carbon or carbon-hydrogen bonds. When in doubt, consult a chemist or customs broker.
Do Chinese inorganic chemicals face Section 301 tariffs?
Yes. Many Chinese-origin inorganic chemicals face Section 301 List 2 additional duties of 25% on top of the regular MFN duty. This includes many acids, salts, and oxides used in industrial manufacturing. Check the specific HTS subheading against USTR's tariff lists.
Are there DEA requirements for importing chemical precursors?
Yes. The DEA regulates import of listed chemicals (precursor chemicals) that can be used to manufacture controlled substances. Importers must register with DEA, file import declarations, and comply with record-keeping requirements. Common regulated precursors include certain acids, solvents, and potassium permanganate.
What Importers Need to Know About HTS Chapter 28
This subheading falls under an HTS chapter covering inorganic chemicals including elements, oxides, acids, salts, hydroxides, and rare earth compounds. Importers of these products should be aware of the following trade compliance considerations:
Chemical imports are subject to TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) administered by EPA. Verify TSCA Inventory status before importing. Certain inorganic chemicals may also be subject to DEA regulation.
For the specific subheading HTS 283421, we recommend you:
- Verify the correct 10-digit statistical suffix — even within a 6-digit subheading, duty rates can differ significantly between suffixes
- Check FTA eligibility — if your product qualifies for preferential treatment under USMCA, KORUS, or another FTA, you may reduce or eliminate duties by providing the required origin certification
- Monitor for trade remedy changes — Section 301, Section 232, and anti-dumping duties are updated periodically. A rate that was correct last quarter may have changed
- Consult CBP resources — for binding classification rulings, CBP's National Commodity Specialist Division provides written determinations
At a Glance
- All 1 sub-classifications under HTS 283421 are duty-free under the General rate — no tariff applies regardless of country of origin.
- This code falls under a chapter covering inorganic chemicals including elements, oxides, acids, salts, hydroxides, and rare earth compounds.
Quick Answer: HTS 283421 Duty Rates
HTS subheading 283421 (of potassium) contains 1 sub-classification.
1 suffix carry duty-free General rates.
Suffix 2834.21.00.00: General rate Free.
Always verify with CBP — Section 301, Section 232, and ADD/CVD may apply.
Importing Under HTS 283421: What Importers Ask
Does this chemical product require TSCA certification?
Chemical products under this HTS chapter are subject to EPA TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) requirements. Verify your substance is listed on the TSCA Inventory. New chemicals require PMN (Pre-Manufacture Notice) submission to EPA at least 90 days before import.
How are pharmaceutical intermediates classified differently from finished drugs?
Pharmaceutical intermediates generally fall under Chapter 29 (organic chemicals), while finished dosage-form drugs fall under Chapter 30. The distinction affects both duty rates and FDA regulatory requirements — finished drugs face higher scrutiny under CDER/CBER.
What safety data sheet (SDS) requirements apply to chemical imports?
OSHA HazCom Standard requires SDS for hazardous chemical imports. CBP may hold shipments without proper SDS documentation. Ensure your foreign supplier provides GHS-compliant SDS in English. Certain chemicals also require EPA or DEA import certification.
HTS Chapter 28 Classification Guide: Inorganic Chemicals
Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals including chemical elements, oxides, acids, salts, hydroxides, and rare earth compounds. Classification depends on the chemical composition and whether the product is a separate chemically defined compound or a mixture. Isotopes and rare earth compounds have specific subheadings.
Common Misclassification Errors
- Classifying organic compounds under Chapter 28 — organic chemicals belong in Chapter 29, and the distinction between organic and inorganic is critical for correct classification
- Confusing mixtures with chemically defined compounds — mixtures and solutions have separate subheadings or may fall under Chapter 38
- Failing to check TSCA (EPA) requirements — many inorganic chemicals require TSCA Inventory verification before importation
Duty Calculation Tips for HTS 283421
Many inorganic chemicals enter at low MFN rates or duty-free. Rare earth compounds and strategic materials may face export controls from source countries. TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) verification is required for most industrial chemicals. Section 301 List 2 (25%) applies to many Chinese-origin inorganic chemicals. Check DEA scheduling for precursor chemicals.
Official Sources
PoliteDraft recommends verifying duty rates directly with official government sources before filing import documentation.
Independent editors organize official USITC HTS data and explain how to check the exact suffix, unit, origin, and trade remedies. This site is a research reference, not a customs broker, attorney, or classification opinion.
Related HTS Codes in This Section
Related Chapters
HTS Chapter 28 is frequently cross-referenced with the following chapters in supply chain and trade compliance workflows.
Browse All HTS Codes in This Section
See the complete list of HTS subheadings under the same section as 283421.
View Section Overview →<strong>Editorial note:</strong> The first listed General rate for HTS 283421 (Of potassium) is duty-free in this revision. Check every statistical suffix and the Special column for country-specific treatment before filing.