2612 - Uranium or thorium ores and concentrates:

This HTS category, 2612, encompasses naturally occurring or processed uranium and thorium ores, as well as their initial concentrates. These are raw materials from which fissile materials are extracted, primarily for use in nuclear power generation and other specialized industrial applications. The classification hinges on the presence of significant quantities of either uranium or thorium within the extracted mineral substance.

Unlike its sibling categories which span a wide array of diverse products such as live animals (Chapters 01-05), minerals (Chapters 25-27), and other manufactured goods, this category is specifically dedicated to the foundational mineral resources for nuclear energy. It is crucial to differentiate these ores and concentrates from the refined uranium or thorium metal, or compounds thereof, which would fall under different HTS classifications based on their further processing.

Within this chapter, subcategories are further delineated based on the primary radioactive element. 2612.10.00.00 specifically covers uranium ores and their concentrates, while 2612.20.00.00 pertains to thorium ores and their concentrates. This distinction is vital for regulatory and customs purposes, reflecting the different properties and applications of these two distinct radioactive elements in their ore and concentrate forms.