Do silicone products made from different materials have the same HS code?
Silicone products made from different materials don't necessarily have the same HS code. The specific code depends on various factors, including the product's composition, properties, and intended use. The following is a detailed analysis:
Classification by composition and properties
Ordinary silicone products: Conventional silicone products without special functional materials, such as ordinary silicone bracelets and silicone kitchenware, are generally classified under 3926909090, which corresponds to "Other plastic products and products made from materials listed in headings 3901 to 3914."
Silicone products with special ingredients: When special ingredients are added to silicone products to impart specialized properties, their classification may differ. For example, silicone products with conductive materials added, used for electrical connections in electronic devices, may be classified under codes related to electronic components, such as 85489000 (other headings, parts for electrical equipment and apparatus not specified in Chapter 85). Classification by Application
Industrial silicone products: Silicone products used in industrial production processes, such as silicone seals for mechanical seals, can be classified under 84842000 (Vulcanized rubber gaskets or similar products, covered, backed, or combined with other materials) after confirming that their materials comply with relevant regulations. Because they provide sealing functions in industrial equipment, they fall under the category of mechanical parts.
Medical silicone products: Silicone products used in the medical field, such as silicone catheters and implantable silicone medical device components, are generally classified under Chapter 9021. These products are closely related to human health and must meet strict medical standards and regulatory requirements. For example, a silicone catheter might be classified under 90213900 (Other surgical instruments and apparatus of rubber or plastic). Silicone products intended for food contact: Silicone products intended for food contact, such as silicone dinner plates and ice trays, are classified under 39241000 (Plastic tableware and kitchen utensils) due to food safety standards. They must be considered not only for material but also for their food contact characteristics.