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:
Free
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 2809.20.00 Covers
This subheading covers phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids, inorganic acids of phosphorus used across food, fertilizer, detergent, and industrial applications. It sits in Chapter 28 (inorganic chemicals) and includes both the common orthophosphoric acid and the condensed polyphosphoric acid forms. It does not cover phosphorus pentoxide, which is classified separately in the same heading group.
Notes for Importers
A common distinction is between phosphoric acid (this subheading) and diphosphorus pentoxide (phosphoric anhydride), which is classified under subheading 2809.10. Food-grade and technical or fertilizer-grade phosphoric acid are both classified here regardless of end use. Phosphate salts, by contrast, fall under other headings such as 2835.
Product Category
Chemical Products
This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 2809.20.00 |
| Description | Phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids |
| Chapter | 28 - Chemical Products |
| General Duty Rate | Free |
| Rate Type | Free |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does food-grade phosphoric acid go here?
Yes. Both food-grade and technical or industrial grades of phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids are classified in this subheading, as classification is based on the chemical, not the grade.
Is phosphorus pentoxide included?
No. Diphosphorus pentoxide (phosphoric anhydride) is classified under subheading 2809.10, while this subheading covers the acids themselves.
Are phosphate salts classified here?
No. Salts such as sodium or calcium phosphates are classified under separate headings like 2835, not under this acid subheading.
What is the HTS code 2809.20.00 used for?
HTS code 2809.20.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Phosphoric acid and polyphosphoric acids. 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 2809.20.00?
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 2809.20.00?
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 Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 2809.20.00?
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 2809.20.00 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.