Harmonized System Codes • Schedule B • Harmonized Commodity Description

HS Code 25131000: Pumice - An Essential Material in Various Industries

The HS Code 25131000 refers to the product known as pumice. Pumice is a volcanic rock that is formed when lava with high water and gas content is expelled from a volcano during an eruption. It is a highly porous and lightweight material that has numerous industrial applications. In this article, we will explore the uses of pumice, the importing and exporting states in the United States, and the special tariff preference programs associated with this HS code.

What is Pumice?

Pumice is a type of volcanic rock that is characterized by its highly porous nature. It is formed when lava cools rapidly, trapping gas bubbles and creating a lightweight and abrasive material. Due to its unique properties, pumice has been utilized for centuries in various industries.

Uses of Pumice

Pumice finds applications in a wide range of industries due to its exceptional properties. Some of the common uses of pumice include:

• Construction: Pumice is used as a lightweight aggregate in concrete, providing insulation and reducing the weight of structures. It is also utilized in the production of lightweight concrete blocks and panels.
• Abrasive: The abrasive nature of pumice makes it ideal for use in polishing and exfoliating products. It is commonly found in soaps, toothpaste, and beauty products.
• Horticulture: Pumice is widely used in horticulture and gardening as a soil amendment. Its porous structure helps improve soil drainage, aeration, and water retention.
• Filtration: Pumice is employed in water and air filtration systems due to its ability to trap impurities and improve filtration efficiency.
• Absorbent: Pumice is often used as an absorbent material in industries such as oil spill cleanup, pet litter, and industrial spill containment.

Importing and Exporting States in the United States

When it comes to the import and export of pumice in the United States, there are certain states that play a significant role. The importing state for HS Code 25131000 is Louisiana. This indicates that Louisiana has a substantial demand for pumice as a raw material for various industries.

On the other hand, several states are involved in exporting pumice from the United States. These states include Wisconsin, Georgia, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The abundance of pumice deposits in these states allows them to cater to both domestic and international markets.

Special Tariff Preference Programs

Under the HS Code 25131000, pumice enjoys special tariff preference programs that provide benefits to both importing and exporting countries. These programs aim to promote trade and economic cooperation among nations. The following countries have implemented special tariff preference programs for pumice:

• Australia: Pumice imported from Australia is eligible for duty-free treatment under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
• Bahrain: Pumice imported from Bahrain is subject to a special rate, allowing for reduced or exempted duties.
• Canada: Pumice imported from Canada falls under the duty-free treatment provided by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
• Chile: Pumice imported from Chile enjoys a special rate, facilitating trade between the two countries.
• Israel: Pumice imported from Israel is eligible for duty-free treatment under the special rate agreement.
• Jordan: Pumice imported from Jordan benefits from a special rate, promoting trade relations.
• Morocco: Pumice imported from Morocco falls under a special rate, encouraging economic cooperation.
• Mexico: Pumice imported from Mexico is eligible for duty-free treatment under NAFTA.
• Oman: Pumice imported from Oman enjoys a special rate, enhancing trade opportunities.
• Dominican Republic-Central America: Pumice imported from the Dominican Republic and Central American countries, under the DR-CAFTA agreement, is subject to a special rate.
• Peru: Pumice imported from Peru benefits from a special rate, strengthening trade ties.
• Singapore: Pumice imported from Singapore is eligible for duty-free treatment under a special rate agreement.

These special tariff preference programs ensure that pumice can be traded between these countries with reduced or exempted duties, thereby facilitating international commerce and fostering economic growth.

pumice, classified under HS Code 25131000, is a versatile volcanic rock with various industrial applications. Its usage spans across construction, abrasives, horticulture, filtration, and absorbents. The importing state for pumice in the United States is Louisiana, while states like Wisconsin, Georgia, South Dakota, and Wyoming are actively involved in exporting pumice. Additionally, several countries have implemented special tariff preference programs for pumice, allowing for duty-free or reduced-duty trade. These programs aim to promote international cooperation and facilitate the exchange of goods.