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SITCSection 2
U.S. imports of zirconium ores and concentrates (SITC 28784) totaled $1.1M in April 2026, traded with 7 countries.
Importers of Zirconium Ores and Concentrates paid $106K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 10% on $1.1M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Zirconium Ores and Concentrates imports of $1.1M in April 2026 ran 72% above the year-to-date monthly average of $617K.
Last updated: April 2026 dataZircon sand, the dominant commercial form traded under this heading, is a foundational raw material for ceramic tiles, refractory linings, and nuclear-grade zirconium metal, giving it strategic importance across both industrial and defense-adjacent supply chains. The mineral's radioactive co-occurrence with monazite (a thorium-bearing mineral) can trigger Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) considerations for certain high-thorium-content shipments, a compliance dimension that distinguishes zirconium ore imports from most other mineral concentrates. Buyers sourcing for ceramic or foundry applications should specify zircon purity and hafnium content, as nuclear-grade material requires hafnium separation that standard ceramic-grade product does not undergo.
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Hafnium and zirconium occur together naturally and are chemically similar, but hafnium strongly absorbs neutrons while zirconium does not. Nuclear-grade zirconium requires costly hafnium separation, whereas ceramic and foundry grades do not. Specifying the intended end use and hafnium level in purchase contracts helps ensure the correct grade is shipped and classified.
Zircon sand naturally contains low levels of uranium and thorium. Shipments with elevated radioactivity readings may be flagged by Customs and Border Protection radiation detection equipment. Importers should be prepared to provide radiological characterization data and, if thorium content is significant, consult with the NRC regarding any applicable licensing requirements.
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Monthly import values over time