2846 - Compounds, inorganic or organic, of rare-earth metals, of yttrium or of scandium, or of mixtures of these metals:

This HTS category, 2846, encompasses a specific group of chemical compounds characterized by the presence of rare-earth metals, yttrium, or scandium. These include elements such as lanthanum, cerium, neodymium, praseodymium, and their respective alloys and compounds, as well as yttrium and scandium. The scope is limited to inorganic or organic compounds formed with these particular metals, excluding the metals themselves in their elemental form unless they are part of a compound.

Unlike sibling categories which might cover other metals, elements, or entirely different product groups such as live animals or manufactured goods, Chapter 2846 is narrowly focused on the chemical compounds of this distinct set of metals. The parent context within Section VI and Chapter 28 confirms the placement of these inorganic chemical substances within the broader framework of chemical products.

Underneath this heading, the subcategories further refine the classification. The existence of a specific subheading for "Cerium compounds" (2846.10.00) indicates a recognized distinction for this particular rare-earth metal's compounds, likely due to its distinct applications or volume of trade. The residual "Other" category (2846.90) accounts for all other compounds of rare-earth metals, yttrium, or scandium not specifically enumerated, providing a catch-all for diverse chemical formulations within this group.