Fuel Cell Grade Hydrogen
>- Fuel cell grade hydrogen is a high-purity elemental gas (≥99.97%) used as a fuel in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells for vehicles and stationary power systems. It is a separate chemical element of Chapter 28, meeting the criteria of Note 1(a) to Chapter 28, and is not excluded by Chapter 27 since it is not a petroleum or hydrocarbon fuel. The product is classified under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, regardless of its end use.
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 hydrogen is blended with other gases as a fuel mixture
Hydrogen mixed with hydrocarbons or other gases for fuel use may fall under petroleum gases, but pure hydrogen is excluded.
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 hydrogen purity certificate (e.g
• ≥99.97%) is included with the commercial invoice to substantiate classification as elemental hydrogen
• Verify that the cylinder or container meets Transport Canada regulations for pressurized gas and that the importer holds the necessary permits for hazardous goods
• Declare the product under HS code 2804.10.00 and be prepared to provide technical data sheets if requested by the CBSA
Related Products under Tariff item 2804.10.00
High-Purity Hydrogen for Laboratories
>- High-purity hydrogen for laboratories is an ultra-pure elemental gas (99.999%) used as a carrier gas or fuel in analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs and spectrometers. It is a separate chemically defined element of Chapter 28, meeting the purity and form requirements of Note 1(a). The product is classifiable under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, with no further processing or admixture.
Industrial Grade Hydrogen Gas
>- Industrial grade hydrogen gas is compressed elemental hydrogen used in welding, metal cutting, chemical synthesis, and other manufacturing processes. It is a separate non-metal element of Chapter 28, meeting the criteria of Note 1(a) as a chemically defined element, even if it contains minor impurities. The product is classifiable under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, regardless of its industrial application.
Liquid Hydrogen for Rocket Propulsion
>- Liquid hydrogen for rocket propulsion is hydrogen in a cryogenic liquid state (-253°C), used as a fuel in aerospace applications. The physical state does not affect its classification as a separate chemical element under Chapter 28, and it meets the criteria of Note 1(a). It is classifiable under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, with no exclusions for end use.
Medical Hydrogen Inhalation Gas
>- Medical hydrogen inhalation gas is pharmaceutical-grade hydrogen used in therapeutic inhalation devices, meeting USP standards. It is a chemically defined element of Chapter 28, and its medical use does not exclude it from heading 28.04, as Chapter 28 covers separate elements regardless of application. The product is classifiable under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, provided it is not put up in measured doses for retail sale.
Welding Hydrogen Gas Cylinder
>- Welding hydrogen gas cylinders contain hydrogen gas for oxy-hydrogen welding torches, supplied in large cylinders. The hydrogen is a separate chemical element meeting Chapter 28 Note 1(a), and minor stabilizers or impurities are permitted under Note 1(d) if necessary for preservation or transport. It is classifiable under tariff item 2804.10.00 as hydrogen, as it is not a mixture with other gases.