HS Chapter 36VI (Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries)

HS Code Chapter 36 — Explosives; Pyrotechnic Products; Matches; Pyrophoric Alloys; Certain Combustible Preparations

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tagChapter 36 Quick Reference

Section & Chapter

Section
VI (Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries)
Chapter
36Explosives; Pyrotechnic Products; Matches; Pyrophoric Alloys; Certain Combustible Preparations
Scope
Explosives
Digits
6-digit universal; 8-10 digits per country

Example Products

  • Propellant powders
  • Fireworks
  • Safety matches
  • Detonators
  • Flares
  • Signal rockets
  • Smoke generators
  • Ferrocerium lighters

table_chartCommon 6-Digit HS Codes in Chapter 36

HS Code (6-digit)DescriptionTypical Use
3603.00Safety fuses; detonating fuses; percussion caps
3604.10Fireworks
3605.00Matches

Note: 6 digits are universal (WCO). Import country adds 2-4 digits (US: 10-digit HTSUS, EU: 8-digit CN, MX: 8-digit LIGIE). Always verify with destination customs or your broker.

ruleHow to Classify in Chapter 36 — GRI Rules Applied

General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) — Simplified

  1. GRI 1: Classify by heading terms + section/chapter notes. Read the legal text, not just the title.
  2. GRI 2(a): Incomplete/unfinished articles = complete article if they have essential character.
  3. GRI 2(b): Mixtures/composites = material giving essential character.
  4. GRI 3(a): Most specific description wins over general.
  5. GRI 3(b): Essential character test for mixtures/sets.
  6. GRI 3(c): If equal, last in numerical order.
  7. GRI 4: If none apply, classify by analogy to closest.
  8. GRI 5: Packaging classified with goods unless for repetitive use.
  9. GRI 6: Subheading level: same rules, compare subheading texts.

Chapter 36 Specific Tips

  • Check Chapter Notes first — they override headings (e.g., definitions of "knitted", "woven", "plastic").
  • Read Section NotesVI (Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries) may exclude certain materials.
  • Use HS Explanatory Notes (WCO official commentary) for borderline cases.
  • When in doubt, request binding ruling from destination customs (US: CBP ruling, EU: BTI, MX: SAT criterio).
  • Document your reasoning — audits require proof of due diligence.

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downloadFree: Chapter 36 HS Code Cheat Sheet (PDF)

All 3 codes from this chapter with descriptions, example products, and GRI checklist. Plus 5 classification tips specific to explosives.

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