The Korea Customs Service Item Classification Committee has officially categorized powder substances derived from electric vehicle (EV) waste batteries as “residues for metal extraction.” This categorization means the material will be recognized as a recyclable resource rather than waste, potentially benefiting the growth of related industries.
Announced on the 24th, the decision came during the first session of the Item Classification Committee for 2025, held on the 20th. A total of 17 export and import goods, including EV waste battery powder, were classified and published in the official gazette.
The EV waste battery powder, commonly called black mass or black powder, is obtained by crushing and screening lithium-ion batteries that cannot be reused or electrodes deemed unsuitable during manufacturing. This black powder goes through a preprocessing phase to recover valuable metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese for resource use.
The committee classified this substance under HS Code 2620 as residues suitable for metal extraction, with a base tariff rate of 2%. The customs service emphasized that this clarification marks the material as a “circular resource” rather than mere electronic waste. This decision aligns with global environmental regulations, like the upcoming EU battery passport law, set to take effect in 2026, which mandates digital tracking of battery lifecycle information.
The customs service also announced plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Environment to establish new item numbers to facilitate the smooth distribution of recycled battery-related goods.
Additionally, the committee reviewed a “needle and suture thread combination product” used in facial lifting procedures. They determined that the major component, the suture thread, which remains in the skin to improve wrinkles, qualifies it to be classified as “medical suture” (HS Code 3006, with a 0% tariff rate) instead of medical instruments (HS Section 9018, with an 8% base tariff).
The customs service reiterated its commitment to establishing fair and transparent classification criteria to enhance the accuracy and rationality of item classification. Oh Hyun-jin, a customs assessment officer, encouraged companies to make use of the pre-classification system to reduce uncertainties in item classification.
The pre-classification system allows the customs service to assign item numbers before the importer or exporter files a declaration, aiding those who face difficulties in determining product categories. Applications for this service can be submitted through the UNIPASS electronic customs clearance system.