Heading 2526 covers natural steatite and talc in their raw or simply processed (crushed/powdered) state. Once talc is formulated into a cosmetic preparation, pharmaceutical excipient, or other compounded product, it is classified under the relevant chapter for those finished goods rather than here. The key test is whether the product remains a natural mineral or has become a formulated preparation.

Within heading 2526, the split is only between not-crushed/not-powdered (252610) and crushed or powdered (252620); particle size grades and surface treatments do not create further subheading distinctions at the HS4 level. However, surface-treated or coated talc may be reclassified outside this heading if the treatment fundamentally changes its character, so importers should review the product specification carefully.