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Customs Clearance of All Types of Cement (HS Code + Documents and Permits)
Clearing cement through customs is one of the important and specialized stages in international trade, because cement is a fundamental material for the construction industry and infrastructure projects. To prevent project stoppages, the clearance process must be precise, fast, and uninterrupted. Understanding the legal steps, customs tariffs (HS Code), required documents and permits, as well as technical notes on transportation, helps importers and exporters pass through the clearance path with minimal challenges and cost.
Fast cement clearance consultation
Contact an expert1) Types of Cement and Their Import into Iran
Cement is divided into various categories, each used for specific applications in construction. Some of the cement types imported into Iran include the following:
- Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC): The most commonly used type of cement in most building and infrastructure projects. Due to its high strength and suitable mechanical properties, OPC is used for general construction and concrete structures.
- White Cement: Mainly used in projects where aesthetics and architectural design are of special importance. It is commonly used for decorative materials and building façades.
- Sulfate-Resistant Cement (SR): Suitable for areas where soil or groundwater contains high amounts of sulfates, such as industrial or marine zones. SR cement has higher resistance against sulfate attack.
- Pozzolanic Cement: Due to its high chemical resistance and its ability to mitigate alkali–silica reactions in concrete, this type is used for projects such as bridges, dams, tunnels, and other large or underground structures.
- Slag Cement: Produced by combining cement with blast-furnace slag. Because of its high resistance to chemicals and reduced environmental impact, it is used in large projects such as dams and industrial structures.
2) Industrial and Construction Applications of Cement Types
| Cement Type | Key Applications | Important Technical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Portland (OPC) | General concreting, residential and commercial structures, precast elements | Standard setting time, adequate compressive strength, control water–cement ratio |
| White | Façades, decorative floorings, architectural elements | Purity of raw materials, uniform color, sensitivity to color contaminants |
| Sulfate-Resistant (SR) | Marine/coastal structures, treatment plants, foundations in sulfate soil | Reduced C3A phase, long-term durability in aggressive environments |
| Pozzolanic | Dam construction, tunnels, long-life pavements | Lower heat of hydration, reduced permeability, higher chemical durability |
| Slag | Industrial structures, chemical environments, mega projects | High durability, helps reduce environmental impacts, good later-age strength |
3) Key Points in Clearing Cement from Customs
- Verify HS Code alignment with the exact cement type (Portland, white, pozzolanic, SR, slag).
- Prepare complete documents (proforma, invoice, certificate of origin, bill of lading, standard/quality, insurance policy, release note, declaration).
- Control quality standards (national and international) at destination and request a certificate of conformity if needed.
- Plan transportation (sea/road/rail) considering high volumes and manage unloading and warehousing.
- Evaluate import restrictions and permits per the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade policies and domestic production support regulations.
4) Customs Tariffs for Cement (HS Code)
- Ordinary Portland Cement: HS Code 2523.29 (2523.29)
- White Cement: HS Code 2523.21 (2523.21)
- Pozzolanic and other special cements: HS Code 2523.90 (2523.90)
5) Specific Conditions for Cement Import and Export
Import and export of cement are subject to specific laws and regulations due to the strategic nature of this commodity and its impact on industrial and urban infrastructure development. In Iran, given extensive domestic production and macroeconomic planning, cement imports are under strict controls. The main goal of these controls is to support domestic producers and ensure stability in the domestic market. Cement imports usually require special permits from relevant organizations such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade. These permits include approvals related to quality standards, technical specifications, and the economic conditions of import.
In addition, customs tariffs for imported cement play an important role in controlling imports. These tariffs vary depending on the type of cement (such as Portland, white, or sulfate-resistant cement) and are generally set to support domestic production.
Conversely, the export of Iranian cement—known in global markets for its high quality and competitive price—is also carried out under specific supervision and regulations. For exporting cement, quality approvals from the Iranian National Standards Organization and necessary customs approvals are required. Also, due to the high volume of cement exports, logistics coordination is very important. Transportation is often via ports and, in some cases, by rail networks, which requires careful management to avoid potential delays.
6) Iran Market: Import Routes and Export Destinations
Iran is one of the significant producers in the region; however, some special types such as white cement or specific grades may be imported.
Countries Exporting to Iran
- Turkey; advantage of geographic proximity and lower freight cost.
- China; product variety and competitive pricing.
- United Arab Emirates; access to high-quality brands.
- Europe; mainly specialized and project-focused cements.
Iran’s Export Destinations
- Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Oman, and some African markets.
- Transport via southern ports and western/eastern land borders is common.
7) Cement Import and Export Volumes of Iran
Iran is one of the world’s largest cement producers with a production capacity of more than 80 million tons per year. This production volume is used not only to meet domestic needs but also for exports to various countries. Iran’s cement exports are mainly destined for neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Oman, and some African countries.
Regarding imports, Iran mainly imports special cements such as white cement or specialty grades from Turkey, China, the United Arab Emirates, and European countries. These cements are usually used for special projects or as a complement to domestic production. Although cement imports are more limited due to Iran’s domestic production capacity, they are still carried out for some special projects.
8) Major Global Exporters and Importers
Top Cement Exporters Worldwide
- China: the largest exporter of cement, especially to Asian and African countries.
- Turkey: one of the largest exporters to Europe and the Middle East.
- Vietnam: a major exporter to Southeast Asia.
- Iran: exporter to neighboring countries and the Middle East.
- Egypt: exporter to African countries and some global markets.
Major Cement Importers Worldwide
- Iraq: one of the largest importers of Iranian cement due to geographic proximity and reconstruction needs.
- Afghanistan: another neighboring country that imports a significant share of its cement from Iran.
- African countries: many African nations need cement imports due to insufficient domestic production.
- United States: despite substantial domestic production, still covers part of its demand via imports.
9) Required Documents for Cement Customs Clearance
Order Registration in the National Trade System: The first and primary step for cement import is registering the order in the National Trade System. This registration serves as the official notification of the import and coordination with government bodies.
Proforma (Proforma Invoice): Issued by the seller and includes complete product details such as type, quantity, price, and payment terms. This document is required to start the clearance process.
Commercial Invoice (Invoice): Shows the final price of the goods and payment terms. Detailed product information and parties to the transaction are recorded in this document.
Certificate of Origin: Issued by the exporting country’s chamber of commerce, it specifies the country from which the cement is exported. It is one of the key documents in customs clearance.
Bill of Lading: Contains full details of transporting the cement from origin to destination. Information such as mode of transport (road, sea, air), vessel or vehicle name, dispatch date, and final destination is specified.
Standards and Quality Certificates: Imported cement must have certificates related to national and international standards. These confirm that the imported cement meets the specified standards.
Release Note: A document issued by the carrier indicating the release of cement from the port or customs warehouses for final clearance.
Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate: In some cases, cement is inspected by independent inspection companies before shipment to the destination, and a quality certificate is issued. This helps the buyer ensure the quality and quantity of the imported goods.
Transport Insurance Policy: Covers the goods against potential risks during transportation such as theft, damage, or unforeseen incidents. This document is required for clearance and delivery.
Customs Declaration: Includes all information related to the goods, such as type, quantity, and value of the cement. The declaration must be consistent with other documents and submitted to customs completely and accurately.
Approval from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade: Cement import requires relevant approvals from the Ministry. This confirms compliance with domestic regulations and standards.
Business Card (Trade License): Any company intending to import cement must have a valid trade license. This is the legal permit for conducting international commercial transactions.
Need the exact HS Code and document consulting? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma Request10) Key Tips and Practical Recommendations
- Before purchase, match the cement’s technical specifications (grade, strength, additives) with the destination project’s standard.
- For coastal projects or sulfate soils, use SR cement or pozzolanic/slag blends.
- Coordinate bulk transport planning with port/rail from the outset to reduce demurrage and delays.
- Use pre-shipment inspection and quality certificates to reduce disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the common HS Code for Portland cement?
For ordinary Portland cement: 2523.29 (2523.29). For white cement: 2523.21 (2523.21), and for other special types: 2523.90 (2523.90).
What permits are required for importing cement?
Generally, order registration, standard/quality certificates, approvals from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, and trade documents (invoice, certificate of origin, bill of lading, insurance) are required.
What’s the best transport method for cement?
Depending on volume and route, a combination of sea/rail for inbound and road for domestic distribution is recommended.
How does Saba Tarkhis help?
From determining HS Codes to obtaining permits, completing formalities, transport planning, and transparent reporting—our team manages all stages.
Multimedia Suggestions
- Image filename:
customs-clearance-cement-iran-hs2523.jpg - Alt Text: Customs clearance of all types of cement in Iran | HS 2523.21, 2523.29, and 2523.90
- Caption: «Cement clearance steps: from order registration and standards to declaration and release note»
- Infographic: «Cement clearance documents checklist + permit pathway and combined transport (sea/rail)»
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Summary and Call to Action
For clearing all types of cement, given the variety of grades, quality standards, and logistics sensitivities, precise document planning and obtaining permits are essential. With practical experience, Saba Tarkhis moves your process forward quickly and in full compliance with regulations.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecial Cargo-Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
With years of experience in customs clearance and cooperation with major import/export companies, Saba Brokerage is one of the most reputable customs brokers in Iran. Our special services for clearing various cement types include the following:
Specialized consulting on tariffs and customs regulations: Our experts provide the latest information regarding HS 2523.21, 2523.29, and 2523.90, import/export regulations, and required permits to prevent any issues during the clearance process.
Handling all order-registration procedures: Registering orders and obtaining necessary permits from government bodies such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade and the National Standards Organization are performed with continuous and rapid follow-up to simplify the process as much as possible.
Follow-up and expediting customs clearance: Speed in clearing cement from customs is always a concern for importers. Through continuous follow-up and direct communication with customs offices, we ensure your consignments are cleared in the shortest possible time without delays.
Full management of duties and taxes: All stages related to paying import duties and related taxes are fully managed so you can focus on your other business activities with peace of mind.
Transportation and delivery: Transport and unloading services from national customs are provided in cooperation with international and domestic logistics companies, ensuring fast and reliable movement of your bulk shipments.
