Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
Free
This item enters the United States duty-free. No import duty is charged regardless of origin country.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
$1.32/t, including weight of container
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 2523.90.00.00 Covers
This is the residual line for hydraulic cements that are not portland cement, aluminous cement, or slag cement, which each have their own provisions under heading 2523. It covers specialty binders that set and harden with water, such as pozzolanic cements, supersulfated cements, and other niche hydraulic binders. The product must function as a cement in its own right, not merely be an ingredient.
Notes for Importers
Most ordinary construction cement is portland cement and belongs under 2523.29, not here; use this code only when the product genuinely is not portland, aluminous, or slag cement. Ready-mix mortars, grouts, and concrete mixes containing cement plus aggregates or additives are typically classified in Chapter 38 (heading 3824) as prepared binders rather than in heading 2523. Cement clinker also has its own subheading (2523.10) and should not default here.
Product Category
Mineral Products
This chapter covers salt, sulfur, stone, cement, ores, slag, and other mineral materials used in construction and industry.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 2523.90.00.00 |
| Description | Other hydraulic cements |
| Chapter | 25 - Mineral Products |
| General Duty Rate | Free |
| Rate Type | Free |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ordinary gray construction cement go under this code?
Usually not. Standard gray or white construction cement is portland cement, classified under subheading 2523.29 or 2523.21. This line is only for hydraulic cements outside the portland, aluminous, and slag categories.
Are pre-mixed mortars and grouts classified here?
Generally no. Once cement is blended with sand, aggregates, or performance additives into a ready-to-use mortar or grout, the product is usually a prepared binder of Chapter 38, not a cement of heading 2523.
What products actually fall under 2523.90?
Specialty hydraulic binders such as pozzolanic cement, supersulfated cement, and other non-portland hydraulic cements that harden by reaction with water.
What is the HTS code 2523.90.00.00 used for?
HTS code 2523.90.00.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Other hydraulic cements. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 2523.90.00.00?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 2523.90.00.00?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Mineral Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 2523.90.00.00?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 2523.90.00.00 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.