Colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite

NO PGA · STANDARD CUSTOMS PROCEDURE

HSN 3801 20 00 (colloidal or semi-colloidal graphite) is not covered by a Bureau of Indian Standards Quality Control Order and carries no Partner Government Agency clearance requirement at the tariff-line level. Import follows the standard customs procedure: Importer-Exporter Code (IEC), bill of entry, commercial invoice, packing list. Other products within heading 3801 — artificial graphite blocks, plates, and carbon-based paste preparations — occupy separate tariff lines that may carry distinct compliance under Chapter 38.

No partner government agency notification covers this tariff line.

A word of counsel

Colloidal and semi-colloidal graphite dispersions are sometimes formulated into lubricant preparations or industrial coatings that customs may re-classify under a more specific heading; re-classification triggers retrospective compliance and detention pending resolution. The distinction between a pure graphite dispersion and a finished preparation based on graphite or other carbon is the principal classification risk within heading 3801. Verify the product specification — particle size, carrier medium, intended end-use — against the customs tariff before shipment.

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Frequently asked

Does HSN 3801 20 00 require any pre-import registration?

A valid Importer-Exporter Code is required for any commercial import; no product-specific registration applies to this tariff line.

What changes if the graphite product is in the form of a paste, block, or plate preparation?

Graphite or carbon preparations in paste, block, or plate form are classified under a separate tariff line within heading 3801 and may attract distinct compliance requirements under Chapter 38.

Last verified against gazette notifications: 2026-05-16. Source: BIS / DGFT / Indian Customs CUSDATA.