Chromite ore and concentrate (heading 2610) is the unprocessed or beneficiated mineral that has not yet been smelted. Ferrochromium — produced by smelting chromite with carbon — is an iron-chromium alloy classified under the chapter covering iron and steel or ferroalloys, not under this heading.

Chromite is designated a critical mineral by the US government due to its importance to stainless steel and defense applications and the concentration of global supply. While there is no general import restriction on chromite ore, importers should monitor any trade-remedy actions and be aware that strategic supply concerns can influence policy discussions affecting this commodity.