Heading 2504 splits at the subheading level between powder or flake (250410) and all other forms (250490). Flake graphite is a naturally occurring crystalline form separated by milling and flotation; powder is similarly fine-particulate. Lumps, chips, and vein graphite that have not been reduced to powder or flake fall under 250490. The physical form at the time of importation — not the intended downstream use — determines the subheading.

Certain natural graphite lines sourced from China have been subject to Section 301 measures. Because the measure attaches to the specific tariff line and country of origin, importers should verify the applicable measure for their exact 10-digit HTS number and supplier country rather than relying on heading-level generalizations.