Phosphor
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3204111800 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3204170485 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
🌈 Phosphors & Synthetic Coloring Matters (荧光粉与合成有机着色剂)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know What "Phosphor" Really Means in Customs?
In international trade, the term "Phosphor" is a technical term that often leads to classification errors. It is NOT a single HS code category. Depending on its chemical nature and application, it may be classified under Chapter 32 (Coloring Matters) or Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
Based on the provided data, the relevant products fall under Chapter 32: Synthetic Organic Coloring Matters. These include: 1. Disperse Dyes (分散染料): Organic compounds used primarily for dyeing synthetic fibers (polyester, etc.). 2. Pigments (颜料): Inorganic or organic solids used for coloring plastics, inks, and paints.
⚠️ Critical Distinction:
- If the product is a Synthetic Organic Coloring Matter (including disperse dyes and organic pigments), it falls under Chapter 32.
- If the product is a Fluorescent Brightening Agent or Luminophore (e.g., Zinc Sulfide or Barium Magnesium Aluminate used in LEDs/TVs), it may fall under 3204.11 or 3824, but the provided data specifically links complex azo-compounds to 3204.11.18.00 and specific pigment codes to 3204.17.04.85.
- Note: The term "Phosphor" in the user query is often colloquially used to refer to Fluorescent Brighteners or Luminophores in textile/chemical contexts, which are covered under Note 3 to Chapter 32.
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
The provided data contains two specific classifications based on the chemical composition and type of coloring matter.
| HS Code | Product Description | Key Characteristics | Application Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|
3204.11.18.00 |
Disperse Dyes (Synthetic organic coloring matter, disperse dyes and preparations based thereon) |
Specifically includes complex azo-compounds with sulfonamide groups. Examples: - N-[2-[(2,6-Dicyano-4-methylphenylazo]-5-(diethylamino)-phenyl] methanesulfonamide - N-[2-[2,6-Dicyano-4-methylphenylazo]-5-(di-1-propylamino) phenyl]methanesulfonamide |
High-performance dyeing of synthetic fibers (polyester, acetate). Often used in textiles where heat and light resistance are critical. |
3204.17.04.85 |
Pigments (Pigments and preparations based thereon: Other) |
Specific inorganic/organic pigments listed by Color Index (C.I.) numbers. Includes: - Pigment Black 1, Blue 16/18, Brown 22-25/32, Green 8, Orange 31-51, Red 9-221, Violet 32, Yellow 16-153 (specific codes) - "Other" pigments not explicitly listed in prior subheadings. |
Industrial coloring for plastics, coatings, inks, and cosmetics. These are insoluble coloring particles. |
🔍 Key Insight:
-3204.11refers to Disperse Dyes (soluble, diffused into fibers).
-3204.17refers to Pigments (insoluble, dispersed in a binder).
- The specific chemical names provided in the data for3204.11.18.00are synthetic organic azo dyes, which are a subset of disperse dyes.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Duties & Policy Additions)
✅ Applicable Country: China (CN) Import Tariff Schedule (Based on the tax data provided: "基础关税: 6.5%, 加征关税: 25.0%")
✅ Product: Synthetic Organic Coloring Matters (Disperse Dyes & Pigments)
✅ Note: The tax data provided indicates a total tax burden significantly higher than the base rate, suggesting the application of additional tariffs (likely anti-dumping or countervailing duties, or specific Section 301-type measures if applied to China exports, but here it appears as an import tariff structure for Chinese products or goods originating from a specific region).
🎯 1. 3204.11.18.00 —— Disperse Dyes (Specific Azo Compounds)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | Failed to retrieve tax information (Note: Data indicates "Error" or unavailable) |
| Total Tax | Error (Data unavailable in source) |
| Interpretation | The provided data explicitly states tax_detail: "Failed to retrieve tax information" and total_tax: "Error". |
| Customs Advice | Do not rely on this specific line for final costing. You must verify with local customs or a licensed broker. It may require a specific ruling or pre-classification. |
📌 Explanation:
- Since tax information is missing, risk assessment is high.
- Disperse dyes often have varying base rates depending on the exact chemical structure. The code3204.11.18.00is a specific "Other" subcategory under Disperse Dyes.
- Action: Request a Pre-classification Ruling (预归类决定) from customs before shipment.
🎯 2. 3204.17.04.85 —— Pigments (Specific C.I. Codes & "Other")
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (Ad valorem) |
| Additional Tariff | +25.0% (Likely anti-dumping, countervailing, or specific trade remedy duty) |
| Total Tax | 31.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 31.5% |
| Legal Basis Path | HS: 3204.17.04.85 → Base Rate: 6.5% → Additional Duty: 25.0% |
📌 Explanation:
- The Base Rate of 6.5% is standard for many chemical pigments under MFN (Most Favored Nation) terms.
- The 25% Additional Tariff is significant. This often reflects trade remedy measures (e.g., anti-dumping duties on specific chemical products from certain origins, or reciprocal tariffs).
- Total Cost Impact: The effective duty rate is nearly 5x the base rate, drastically affecting profitability.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Operational Advice (Practical Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
✅ 1. Preparation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Chemical Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) | ✔️ Mandatory | Proves the product is not hazardous, flammable, or explosive. Essential for chemical imports. |
| ✅ Certificate of Analysis (COA) | ✔️ Mandatory | Must list CAS Numbers for each component. Customs will verify against the HS code description. |
| ✅ Structure Diagram / Formula | ✔️ Mandatory | For 3204.11.18.00, the exact chemical structure (azo linkage, sulfonamide group) must match the code. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ Mandatory | Clearly state: "Synthetic Organic Disperse Dye" or "Pigment [C.I. Name/Number]". Do not use vague terms like "Coloring Agent". |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ Mandatory | Net weight and gross weight must align with the declared quantity. |
| ✅ Origin Certificate | ✔️ Conditional | If claiming any preferential rates (if applicable), provide Form A or similar. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
🔥 "CAS Number is King, Disperse vs. Pigment is Everything!"
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Disperse Dye (Azo Compound) | 3204.11.18.00 + Exact Chemical Name + CAS No. |
Declaring as "Dye" or "Coloring Matter" without specificity → Refusal |
| Pigment (e.g., Pigment Red 122) | 3204.17.04.85 + C.I. Number (e.g., CI Pigment Red 122) |
Declaring as "Paint" or "Ink" → Wrong Chapter (32 or 38) |
| Mixture of Dyes | Declare the principal constituent or specific composition | Declaring as "Preparation" without % composition → Audit Risk |
| Fluorescent Brightener | Verify if it falls under 3204.11 or 3824.90 |
Assuming all "fluorescent" products are the same HS code |
✅ 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Sample vs. Bulk | Even small samples of 3204.11 or 3204.17 require MSDS and CAS verification. Do not declare as "Gift" to avoid inspection. |
| Chemical Name Discrepancy | If the invoice name differs from the HS code description, provide a Translation Letter from the manufacturer explaining the chemical equivalence. |
High-Risk Code 3204.11.18.00 |
Since tax info is "Error", this code is high-risk for automated clearance. Prepare for manual inspection. |
Pigment "Other" (3204.17.04.85) |
Ensure the pigment is not explicitly listed in prior subheadings (e.g., 3204.17.04.01 to 04.80). If it matches a specific C.I. code in an earlier line, misclassification may lead to penalties. |
🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Base Tariff | Key Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳 China (Import) | 3204.11.18.00 / 3204.17.04.85 |
0-6.5% + 25% (Additional) | MSDS, COA | High total duty (31.5%) for Pigments. Check for trade remedies. |
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3204.11 / 3204.17 |
Varies (Often 5-6.5%) | DSSTox, EPA TSCA | Section 301 tariffs may apply (25%). |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3204.11 / 3204.17 |
6.5% | REACH, CLP | Strict chemical registration (ECHA). |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 3204.11 / 3204.17 |
6.5% | JIS, PSE (if in equipment) | Focus on purity and safety data. |
📌 Conclusion:
- China's 31.5% total duty on Pigments (3204.17.04.85) is a significant cost driver.
- Disperse Dyes (3204.11.18.00) have unclear tax status in the provided data, posing a customs clearance risk.
- REACH (EU) and TSCA (US) are non-tariff barriers that are often more challenging than tariffs for chemical imports.
📌 VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
❌ Mistake 1: Declaring "Disperse Dye" without CAS Number
👉 Consequence: Customs cannot verify the chemical structure. Detention for testing. Delay of 2-4 weeks.
❌ Mistake 2: Using "Phosphor" as the declaration for 3204.11
👉 Consequence: Mismatch between name and HS code definition. Rejected or reclassified to incorrect code.
❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring the 25% Additional Tariff for Pigments
👉 Consequence: Underpayment of duties. Fine + Interest. The total cost is 31.5%, not 6.5%.
❌ Mistake 4: Assuming 3204.11.18.00 has a standard rate
👉 Consequence: The data says "Error". Unpredictable costs.
👉 Solution: Apply for a Pre-Ruling before shipping.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Synthetic Organic Disperse Dye, CAS No. 12345-67-8, Structure: N-[2-[(2,6-Dicyano-4-methylphenylazo]..., HS: 3204.11.18.00, MSDS Attached"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
🎯 Remember Mnemonics:
🔹 "CAS is King, Pigment 31.5, Dye Check First, Paperwork Complete!"
🔹 "HS Code Determines Duty, 25% Add-on is a Trap, Declaration Must Be Exact!"
📌 Tips:
- If importing Pigments, budget for 31.5% total duty.
- If importing Disperse Dyes (Code 3204.11.18.00), contact customs to confirm the tax status before shipment, as the data shows an error.
- Always provide MSDS and COA with CAS Numbers.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact your customs broker to verify the tax status of
3204.11.18.00.
🚀 For Pigments, ensure the 25% additional duty is accounted for in your price calculation.
✨ Accurate classification = Smooth clearance + Predictable costs.
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
💼 Your cost efficiency depends on accurate HS Code selection.
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.