HS 271210 Petroleum jelly
Quick Answer: HS code 271210 covers petroleum jelly, a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum, commonly known as petrolatum. This includes products like Vaseline, used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as a lubricant. For imports into the United States, petroleum jelly is classified under HTSUS subheading 2712.10.00.00 and is duty-free. In the UK, the standard duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem, as per the UK Trade Tariff. For the EU, the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) shows a general third-country duty rate of 2.20% ad valorem for subheading 2712 10 10 (crude petroleum jelly) and 0.00% for subheading 2712 10 90 (other petroleum jelly), with potential variations based on specific product characteristics or preferential agreements. Importers should verify the exact classification and applicable duty based on the product's purity and intended use.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2712100000 | — | — | — |
| 2712109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2712101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2712100000 | — | — | — |
| 2712109000 | 2.20 % | — | — |
| 2712101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2712100000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 271210 cover?
This subheading covers petroleum jelly, also known as petrolatum or soft paraffin, which is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2712, petroleum jelly is characterized by its unctuous feel and its melting point, typically between 30°C and 60°C. It is often used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and as a lubricant. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system both align with the WCO's definition, specifically identifying this product as the unctuous, translucent substance derived from petroleum.
What falls outside HS 271210?
The following products are excluded from HS 271210: mineral waxes other than petroleum jelly, such as paraffin wax (HS 271220), micro-crystalline wax, slack wax, and ozokerite, which are classified under HS 271290. Additionally, preparations containing petroleum jelly but having other active ingredients or formulated for specific therapeutic or cosmetic purposes, where the petroleum jelly is not the sole or principal characteristic, would typically be classified in Chapter 30 (pharmaceuticals) or Chapter 33 (cosmetics), depending on their composition and intended use. For example, a medicated ointment primarily composed of petroleum jelly but containing an antiseptic would fall outside this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 271210?
A common error is misclassifying petroleum jelly that has been slightly colored or perfumed as a cosmetic preparation under Chapter 33, rather than under HS 271210. General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 dictates that classification should be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the coloring or perfuming does not alter the fundamental character of the petroleum jelly as a product of Heading 2712, it remains classified here. Another mistake is confusing petroleum jelly with other mineral waxes like paraffin wax, which, despite being petroleum derivatives, have different physical properties and are specifically provided for under other subheadings within 2712.
How should importers classify products under HS 271210?
The correct procedure for classifying petroleum jelly involves first confirming that the product meets the definition of petroleum jelly as outlined in the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2712, specifically its semi-solid consistency and melting point range. Importers and customs brokers should review the product's technical specifications, including its chemical composition and physical properties, to ensure it is indeed petroleum jelly and not another mineral wax or a formulated preparation. If the product is simply petroleum jelly, even if slightly refined, colored, or perfumed without altering its essential character, it should be classified under HS 271210, adhering to GRI 1 and 6 for accurate subheading determination. Consulting official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for specific national interpretations is also crucial.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for Petroleum Jelly (HS 2712.10) in major markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2712.10 (Petroleum jelly) can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States (USITC) generally applies a 'Free' rate for MFN imports. The European Union (EU TARIC) also typically applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. However, other countries may have different rates; for example, some jurisdictions might apply a 2.20% ad valorem rate. Importers should always verify the specific MFN duty rate applicable to their destination country via the official tariff database (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to ensure accuracy.
Does Petroleum Jelly (HS 2712.10) qualify for preferential duty treatment under common trade agreements?
Yes, petroleum jelly (HS 2712.10) frequently qualifies for preferential duty treatment under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and generalized system of preferences (GSP) schemes, potentially resulting in a 0.00% or 'Free' duty rate. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or numerous EU FTAs, goods originating from partner countries may enter duty-free. Importers must ensure the product meets the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the applicable agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. Always consult the specific trade agreement text and national customs regulations for precise requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring a product is correctly classified under HS 2712.10 as 'Petroleum jelly'?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2712.10 is that the product must consist of 'petroleum jelly'. This term, according to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) to Heading 27.12, refers to a mixture of solid and liquid hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum, having a melting point between 30°C and 60°C. It is typically a translucent, yellowish to amber, or white substance. Products with additives (e.g., medicaments, perfumes) or those that have undergone further processing beyond simple refining might be classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 33 or 34, depending on their composition and intended use. Laboratory analysis may be required to confirm the melting point and hydrocarbon composition if there is any doubt.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or import restrictions for Petroleum Jelly (HS 2712.10) that importers should be aware of?
For petroleum jelly (HS 2712.10), standard import documentation typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a Certificate of Origin if preferential duties are claimed. While petroleum jelly is generally not subject to significant import restrictions in most major markets, importers should be aware of potential chemical control regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) if the product is imported in bulk or for specific industrial uses. Additionally, if the petroleum jelly is intended for pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications, it may need to comply with specific health, safety, and quality standards (e.g., USP grade, Ph. Eur. grade) and associated regulatory body requirements (e.g., FDA in the US, EMA in the EU), which could entail additional documentation or certifications. Always confirm with the relevant national regulatory bodies.