Ceramic tableware Hs Code

Ceramic tableware harmonized system code

Product Overview Ceramic tableware classified under HS Code 691200 encompasses a broad range of household and commercial dining products manufactured primarily from ceramic materials such as porcelain, stoneware, and earthenware. These items include but are not limited to plates, bowls, cups, saucers, and serving dishes designed for direct food contact. Typically, these products exhibit high mechanical strength, thermal resistance, and non-porous surfaces achieved through advanced glazing and firing processes at temperatures ranging from 1200°C to 1400°C. The classification under 691200 subdivides into specific categories based on material composition and usage, including porcelain and china tableware (69120010), stoneware (69120020), and other ceramic ware (69120090). These products are widely utilized across foodservice establishments, retail environments, and food processing industries due to their durability, hygienic properties, and aesthetic versatility. Their value proposition lies in combining functional performance with compliance to food safety standards, making them essential for both commercial and domestic applications in international markets. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications The HS Code 691200 falls under Chapter 69 – Ceramic products, specifically Heading 6912, which covers ceramic tableware and kitchenware excluding porcelain or china. The full 6-digit code structure is 6912.00, where ‘69’ denotes ceramic products, ‘12’ specifies tableware and kitchenware, and ‘00’ indicates the general category without further subheading differentiation internationally. Classification under this code is justified by the product’s ceramic composition, intended use in food service, and compliance with standard firing and glazing parameters. Trade considerations for these goods include protective packaging such as molded pulp, foam inserts, or corrugated cartons to prevent chipping and breakage during transit. Preservation methods emphasize moisture resistance and contamination prevention, often using sealed, humidity-controlled containers. Shipping protocols must align with international customs regulations, ensuring proper declaration and adherence to WTO agreements. Quality standards typically referenced are ISO 6486 for ceramic tableware safety and ASTM C373 for water absorption, ensuring products meet international benchmarks for durability, hygiene, and food safety compliance.

Ceramic tableware Chapter Note

1.- This Chapter applies only to ceramic products which have been fired after shaping : (a) Headings 69.04 to 69.14 apply only to such products other than those classifiable in headings 69.01 to 69.03; (b) Articles heated to temperatures less than 800 °C for purposes such as curing of resins, accelerating hydration reactions, or for the removal of water or other volatile components, are not considered to be fired. Such articles are excluded from Chapter 69; and (c) Ceramic articles are obtained by firing inorganic, non-metallic materials which have been prepared and shaped previously at, in general, room temperature. Raw materials comprise, inter alia, clays, siliceous materials including fused silica, materials with a high melting point, such as oxides, carbides, nitrides, graphite or other carbon, and in some cases binders such as refractory clays or phosphates. 2.- This Chapter does not cover : (a) Products of heading 28.44; (b) Articles of heading 68.04; (c) Articles of Chapter 71 (for example, imitation jewellery); (d) Cermets of heading 81.13; (e) Articles of Chapter 82; (f) Electrical insulators (heading 85.46) or fittings of insulating material of heading 85.47; (g) Artificial teeth (heading 90.21); (h) Articles of Chapter 91 (for example, clocks and clock cases); (ij) Articles of Chapter 94 (for example, furniture, luminaires and lighting fittings, prefabricated buildings); (k) Articles of Chapter 95 (for example, toys, games and sports requisites); (l) Articles of heading 96.06 (for example, buttons) or of heading 96.14 (for example, smoking pipes); or (m) Articles of Chapter 97 (for example, works of art).