7903 - Zinc dust, powders and flakes:

This HTS category, 7903, encompasses zinc in a particulate form, specifically as dust, powders, and flakes. These are essentially finely divided particles of zinc metal. This classification is distinct from other entries within Section XV, Chapter 79, which may cover more consolidated forms of zinc, such as unwrought zinc (Chapter 7901), zinc bars, rods, and profiles (Chapter 7902), or articles manufactured from zinc (Chapter 7904 and onward). The defining characteristic here is the physical state of the zinc as a dispersed particulate.

Within this category, the HTS further distinguishes between "Zinc dust" (7903.10.00.00) and "Other" zinc dust, powders, and flakes (7903.90). The primary subdivision separates a specific, commonly traded form of zinc dust, often characterized by its particle size and production method, from other variations of zinc particulate that may not fit the strict definition of "zinc dust" or possess different material compositions or processing techniques. This allows for more precise tariff application based on the specific type and presentation of the zinc powder.