Volcanic Black Sand
> Natural basaltic black sand from volcanic beaches, used in zen gardens and decorative landscaping. The sand is washed and screened but not chemically processed, qualifying as a natural sand of heading 25.05. Although iron-rich, the metal content is not economically extractable, so it is not classified as a metal ore.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the sand is predominantly silica (quartz)
Silica sand is classified separately from other natural sands.
If the sand is in a form other than granular (e.g., lumps)
Other mineral substances not elsewhere specified fall under heading 25.30.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• > Ensure the sand is not mixed with any dyes or synthetic materials; natural color is acceptable
• Provide CBSA with a mineralogical analysis to confirm the sand is basaltic and not a metal ore
• If the sand is sold for zen gardens, no special permits are typically required
Related Products under Tariff item 2505.90.00
Aquarium Substrate Sand
> Natural aragonite sand for marine aquariums, composed of calcium carbonate and sourced from natural deposits. It is washed and screened but not chemically altered, qualifying as a natural sand of heading 25.05. Its pH-buffering property is inherent to the mineral composition, not a result of added substances.
Art Sand for Crafts
> Naturally colored sands for craft and sand art applications, with particle sizes between 0.1 and 0.5 mm. The sands are washed, dried, and screened but not artificially dyed or chemically processed, keeping them within the scope of natural sands of heading 25.05.
Beach Sand for Terrariums
> Fine natural beach sand collected for reptile terrariums and bioactive enclosures, mimicking coastal substrates. The sand is washed and heat-treated to remove pathogens but not chemically altered, qualifying as a natural sand of heading 25.05. It contains no added metals or synthetic components.
Construction Mason Sand
> Clean natural sand for mortar mixing in bricklaying, with a consistent fineness modulus for uniform workability. The sand is washed and screened but not subjected to any chemical or thermal processing, keeping it within the scope of natural sands of heading 25.05.
Decorative River Sand Pebbles
> Rounded natural river sand pebbles for aquariums and decorative displays, naturally tumbled by water action and size-graded to 2-5 mm. The pebbles are washed and screened but not crushed or chemically processed, qualifying as natural sands of heading 25.05.
Equestrian Arena Sand
> Natural quartz sand for horse riding arena footing, selected for its dust-free and well-draining properties. The sand is washed and screened but not chemically treated, qualifying as a natural sand of heading 25.05. Its angular grain shape is natural, not a result of crushing.