Ball Clay for Ceramics
High-plasticity ball clay mined for use in fine porcelain and sanitaryware production. HTS 2508.40.01 covers this as 'other clays'—natural, unexpanded clays used in traditional ceramics.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If primarily kaolinitic composition
High kaolin content shifts to heading 2507; ball clay's mixed minerals keep it in 2508.40.
If calcined into chamotte or dinas earths
Calcined clays like chamotte have dedicated subheading 2508.70, excluding raw clays.
If fired into refractory bricks
Once shaped and fired, clays become ceramic articles under Chapter 69, not raw materials.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Submit plasticity and shrinkage test reports to differentiate ball clay from kaolin and support 'other clays' status
• Label shipments clearly as raw ceramic clay to prevent confusion with processed chamotte (2508.70)
Related Products under HTS 2508.40.01
Kaolin Clay Powder
Finely ground kaolin clay, also known as china clay, used primarily in ceramics, paper production, and as a filler in paints. Classified under HTS 2508.40.01 as 'other clays' since it is a natural clay not specified elsewhere in heading 2508 and excluding expanded clays of heading 6806.
Fire Clay Powder
Refractory-grade fire clay ground into powder for brick manufacturing and high-temperature applications. Classified in HTS 2508.40.01 as other clays, provided not calcined into mullite or chamotte.
Earthenware Clay Mix
Blended natural clays for low-fire earthenware pottery. Remains under HTS 2508.40.01 as other clays if not agglomerated or calcined.
Bentonite Clay Lumps
Natural bentonite clay in lump form, valued for its swelling properties in drilling muds, cat litter, and sealants. Falls under HTS 2508.40.01 as 'other clays,' encompassing natural bentonite not expanded or processed into articles.
Sepiolite Clay Absorbent
Natural sepiolite clay in absorbent form for cat litter and industrial spills, not expanded. HTS 2508.40.01 includes this fibrous clay as 'other clays' distinct from meerschaum.
Attapulgite Clay Granules
Granular attapulgite clay used in suspension agents for pesticides and drilling fluids. As a natural, non-expanded clay, it fits HTS 2508.40.01 'other clays.'