Kernite Sodium Borate Concentrate from China
Kernite is a natural sodium borate (Na2B4O7·4H2O) concentrate from evaporated lake beds, used in welding fluxes and herbicides. HTS 2528.00.0050 covers this non-brine natural borate with H3BO3 content below 85% dry weight. Typically exported as crushed or powdered ore.
Duty Rate — China → United States
37.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Submit mining provenance docs proving non-brine extraction; test for hydration levels affecting weight basis
• Beware of rehydration during ocean transit impacting declared purity