HS Code 2508

Industrial Clays and Related Minerals

HS code 2508 covers industrial clays including bentonite, fire-clay, and andalusite, but excludes expanded clays used in insulation.

4-digit Section VFCL

HS Code 2508 — Industrial Clays and Related Minerals

This code covers various industrial clays like bentonite, fire-clay, and fuller's earth. These minerals are used for drilling muds, metal casting, filtering, and high-temperature refractory materials.

What's included

  • Bentonite
  • Fire-clay
  • Andalusite
  • Sillimanite
  • Fuller's earth

What's excluded

  • Expanded clays → use 6806 (Expanded minerals for insulation are Chapter 68.)
  • Earth colours → use 2530 (Specific category for mineral pigments.)

Common examples

  • Sodium bentonite for oil drilling
  • Refractory fire-clay
  • Andalusite for spark plugs

Frequently asked questions

Is kitty litter classified here?

Only if it is pure, unmixed clay. Most commercial cat litters contain additives and are classified elsewhere (e.g. 2530 or 3824).

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 5%
  • Documentation: Identify the specific type of clay on the bill of lading (e.g. 'Bentonite').
  • Typical shipping mode: FCL
  • Top exporters: United States, India, Turkey
  • Top importers: China, Germany, Canada

Key takeaway

A diverse category for clays used in engineering and manufacturing rather than construction.

Related HS codes

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