Artificial graphite under heading 3801 is produced by high-temperature processing of carbonaceous materials (such as petroleum coke or coal tar pitch) and has a manufactured crystalline structure. Natural graphite — mined and processed but not synthetically produced — is classified under a separate heading in Chapter 25. The production method, not the chemical composition, is the controlling distinction.

Certain artificial graphite and carbon-based preparations originating from specific countries may be subject to Section 301 tariffs or antidumping/countervailing duty orders. The applicable measure depends on the specific tariff line and country of origin. Importers should check the current CBP and USTR databases for the relevant HTS-10 line before entry.