7206 - Iron and nonalloy steel in ingots or other primary forms (excluding iron of heading 7203):

This HTS category, 7206, encompasses iron and nonalloy steel in their most basic, cast forms, often referred to as primary forms. These include ingots, blooms, billets, and other semi-finished shapes that are the direct output of the steelmaking process. Crucially, this heading excludes pig iron and iron of subheadings 7203, which are generally characterized by higher carbon content and are not typically considered "ingots" or "primary forms" in the context of subsequent rolling or forging operations. The defining characteristic here is the initial solidification of molten iron and steel.

Distinguishing this category from its immediate siblings at the Chapter 72 level is paramount. While Chapter 72 broadly covers iron and steel, subsequent headings delve into more processed forms such as bars, rods, angles, shapes, sections, and flat-rolled products. Heading 7206 serves as the foundational entry point, capturing the material *before* it undergoes significant shaping or further manufacturing processes that would categorize it under headings like 7207 (semi-finished products of iron or nonalloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled or extruded) or later chapters.

The subcategories within 7206 provide a straightforward division based on the physical form of these primary materials. Subheading 7206.10.00.00 specifically addresses "Ingots," which are large, cast blocks. The "Other" subheading, 7206.90.00.00, captures all other primary forms of iron and nonalloy steel that do not fit the definition of an ingot, such as blooms and billets. This distinction is important for tracking the initial stages of steel production and its subsequent movement into further manufacturing.