Natural Graphite in Powder or Flakes

Crystalline flake graphite consists of discrete, plate-like crystals with high carbon content and is the primary form used in battery anodes and lubricants — it is captured at 2504101000 (excluding flake dust). Amorphous graphite (microcrystalline) and vein (lump) graphite are also classified within heading 2504 but fall under the 'other' natural graphite subheading (250490) rather than 250410. Importers should obtain mineralogical or technical data sheets from suppliers to confirm crystal structure and support the correct 10-digit line.

China has historically controlled the majority of global natural graphite processing capacity, and Section 301 tariffs on Chinese-origin graphite add landed cost for US importers. Madagascar and Mozambique have emerged as alternative flake graphite sources, but their export volumes and processing infrastructure are still developing. Importers should assess supplier qualification timelines, purity specifications (carbon content, particle size distribution), and logistics lead times when diversifying away from Chinese supply, particularly given the critical-mineral designation and growing battery sector demand.