HS 281290 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 281290, "Other," covers a diverse range of inorganic non-metals and their compounds not specifically classified elsewhere within Chapter 28, particularly those containing halogens or sulfur. This includes various inorganic esters, ethers, and other derivatives of non-metals. Importers and exporters should be aware of the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. The US rates are more varied, ranging from 3.7% to 25% ad valorem, with many products eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, IL, KR). Precise classification at the 8- or 10-digit level is crucial to determine the correct duty and ensure compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812900010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2812900030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2812900000 | — | — | — |
| 2812900025 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2812900090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812900010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2812900000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2812900025 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2812900030 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2812900090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28129000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2812900090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2812900010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2812.90?
Imports of Other may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 281290 cover?
This subheading covers other halogenated or sulfonated derivatives of non-metals, specifically those not falling under subheading 2812.10, which is reserved for carbonyl dichloride (phosgene). According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSENs) for Heading 2812, this residual subheading captures a range of inorganic compounds characterized by the presence of halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine) or sulfonyl groups, directly bonded to non-metal elements. Examples include thionyl chloride (SOCl2) and sulfuryl chloride (SO2Cl2), which are important intermediates in organic synthesis and chemical manufacturing. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this WCO definition, ensuring consistent global application for these specific chemical derivatives.
What falls outside HS 281290?
The following products are excluded from HS 281290: carbonyl dichloride (phosgene), which is specifically classified under HS 2812.10. Furthermore, organic compounds, even if they contain halogen or sulfonyl groups, are generally excluded from Chapter 28 and are classified in Chapter 29, provided they meet the definition of an organic chemical. For instance, chloromethanes or bromomethanes, despite containing halogens, are organic compounds and would fall under Chapter 29. Similarly, inorganic acids containing halogens, such as hydrochloric acid (HCl) or hydrofluoric acid (HF), are classified under HS 2806 or HS 2811, respectively, not under Heading 2812, as they are not derivatives in the sense intended by this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281290?
A common error is misclassifying organic halogenated or sulfonated compounds under HS 281290, rather than their correct Chapter 29 headings. Importers sometimes overlook the fundamental distinction between inorganic and organic chemistry when dealing with complex chemical names. For example, a compound like trichlorofluoromethane, despite its halogen content, is an organic compound (a halomethane) and belongs in Chapter 29, specifically HS 2903. This mistake often arises from a failure to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, which clearly delineate organic from inorganic chemicals.
How should importers classify products under HS 281290?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281290 involves a systematic approach, starting with a precise chemical identification. Importers and customs brokers must first ascertain if the product is an inorganic compound. Next, they must confirm it is a halogenated or sulfonated derivative of a non-metal. Crucially, they must verify that it is not carbonyl dichloride (phosgene), which has its own specific subheading (2812.10). Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2812 is essential to confirm the scope and exclusions. Finally, cross-referencing with the USITC HTS or EU TARIC system for any specific national rulings or additional guidance will ensure accurate and compliant classification, minimizing potential delays or penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the import duty rate for products classified under HS 281290 in the United States?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 281290, which covers 'Other' non-metals and their compounds, is 3.7% ad valorem. However, many countries benefit from preferential duty treatment. For example, imports from countries designated as A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG under various U.S. free trade agreements or preference programs are eligible for a 'Free' duty rate. Importers should verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to determine eligibility for preferential rates.
How is HS 281290 'Other' distinguished from other subheadings within Chapter 28?
HS 281290 is a residual subheading for 'Other' non-metals and their compounds, specifically referring to 'Halides and halide oxides of non-metals.' This subheading is used when a specific chemical compound does not fall under the more precisely defined subheadings within HS 2812, such as 281210 (e.g., phosphorus trichloride, phosphorus oxychloride). Classification under 281290 requires that the product is a halide or halide oxide of a non-metal and is not explicitly provided for elsewhere in the Harmonized System Nomenclature. Importers must ensure the chemical identity and composition precisely match the scope of 'halides and halide oxides of non-metals' and are not covered by a more specific 6-digit or 8-digit code.
What documentation is typically required for importing chemicals classified under HS 281290?
Importers of chemicals under HS 281290 should be prepared to provide standard customs documentation including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)/Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often required to verify the chemical identity, purity, and composition, which is essential for accurate HS classification and compliance with chemical regulations. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, KORUS FTA Certificate of Origin) will also be mandatory.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS 281290?
Yes, numerous U.S. trade agreements and preference programs offer preferential duty rates for products classified under HS 281290. For instance, imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) are eligible for duty-free entry under their respective Free Trade Agreements. Additionally, certain developing countries may qualify for duty-free treatment under programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), though eligibility for specific products can vary. Importers should consult the latest HTSUS General Notes and the specific trade agreement rules of origin to confirm eligibility.