Sulphur; sublimed or precipitated, colloidal sulphur

HS code 280200 covers the trade of sulphur in its various forms, including sublimed or precipitated sulphur, as well as colloidal sulphur. Sulphur is a critical raw material with a wide range of industrial applications, making it an essential commodity in the global economy. This code encompasses the import and export of sulphur, which is produced through various mining and refining processes around the world.

Sulphur is primarily obtained through the mining of natural deposits, known as 'native sulphur', or as a by-product of oil and gas refining. The most common production method is the Frasch process, which involves injecting superheated water into sulphur deposits to melt the sulphur, which is then pumped to the surface. Sulphur can also be produced through the roasting of sulphide ores, as well as through the desulfurization of natural gas and crude oil.

The main inputs required for the production of sulphur under HS code 280200 include natural sulphur deposits, as well as the equipment and infrastructure necessary for mining, refining, and transporting the material. This includes specialized drilling and pumping equipment, as well as storage and transportation facilities. Additionally, the production of sulphur as a by-product of oil and gas refining requires the input of those raw materials and the associated refining processes.

The primary outputs of the sulphur industry covered by HS code 280200 are various forms of elemental sulphur, including sublimed, precipitated, and colloidal sulphur. These outputs are then consumed by a wide range of industries, including 280110 Chlorine, 280700 Sulphuric acid, 310210 Urea, and 330620 Dental floss, among others. Sulphur is a key input for the production of numerous chemicals, fertilizers, and other industrial products.