HS 290121 Unsaturated
Quick Answer: HS code 2901.21 covers acyclic hydrocarbons, specifically unsaturated ones like ethylene, propylene, and butylene. These are fundamental organic chemicals used as building blocks in the petrochemical industry for producing plastics, synthetic rubbers, and other organic compounds. Importers and exporters will find that major jurisdictions, including the UK, EU, and US, generally apply a 0.00% or "Free" ad valorem duty rate to products classified under this subheading. This widespread duty-free treatment reflects the essential nature of these raw materials for industrial production, minimizing trade barriers. Accurate classification is crucial to ensure correct duty assessment and compliance, despite the prevalent zero-duty rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2901210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2901210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2901210000 | 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 290121 cover?
This subheading covers acyclic hydrocarbons that are unsaturated, specifically ethylene. As defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, Heading 2901 encompasses acyclic hydrocarbons. Subheading 2901.21 specifically isolates ethylene, which is the simplest alkene, characterized by a double bond between two carbon atoms. This classification is precise, focusing on the chemical structure and the specific compound, ensuring consistent global trade categorization for this fundamental petrochemical building block.
What falls outside HS 290121?
The following products are excluded from HS 290121: other unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons, such as propylene (classified under 2901.22), butenes (classified under 2901.23), and butadiene (classified under 2901.24). Saturated acyclic hydrocarbons, like methane and ethane, are classified under HS 2901.10. Furthermore, cyclic hydrocarbons, whether saturated or unsaturated, fall under Heading 2902. For instance, benzene, an aromatic cyclic hydrocarbon, is classified under 2902.20. The key distinction for exclusion from 2901.21 is the specific chemical identity of the unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbon being something other than ethylene.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290121?
A common error is misclassifying other unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons as ethylene, particularly if the product is a mixture or if the chemical name is not precisely identified. For example, confusing propylene or butylene with ethylene would lead to incorrect classification, as these have their own distinct subheadings (2901.22 and 2901.23, respectively). This often stems 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. Accurate chemical analysis and adherence to the specific chemical nomenclature are crucial to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 290121?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290121 involves first confirming that the product is an acyclic hydrocarbon. Next, it must be verified that the hydrocarbon is unsaturated. Finally, and most critically, the specific chemical identity must be confirmed as ethylene. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, which clearly states the chemical name and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number. This documentation provides definitive proof of the product's identity, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and accurate classification under HS 2901.21 for ethylene.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for goods classified under HS 2901.21 in major markets?
For HS 2901.21, which covers 'Unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons' (specifically 'Ethylene'), the MFN duty rates are generally very low or free. For instance, the United States (USITC) applies a 'Free' duty rate. The European Union (EU TARIC) also applies a '0.00 %' ad valorem duty rate. Similarly, the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff) lists a '0.00 %' duty rate. Importers should always verify the current rates directly with the customs authority of the importing country, as rates can be subject to change.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2901.21, and how does it differ from other subheadings in Chapter 29?
HS 2901.21 specifically covers 'Ethylene,' which is an unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbon. The primary classification criterion is the chemical structure: it must be an acyclic hydrocarbon (meaning it does not contain a ring structure) and unsaturated (containing at least one double or triple carbon-carbon bond). This subheading is distinct from 2901.10 ('Saturated') which covers alkanes, and other subheadings within 2901 that specify different unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons like propylene (2901.22) or butenes (2901.23). The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between these subheadings based on their chemical formulas and structures.
Are there any common preferential trade agreements that offer duty reductions or exemptions for HS 2901.21, and what documentation is typically required?
Given that the MFN duty rates for HS 2901.21 are often 'Free' or '0.00 %' in many major economies, the direct impact of preferential trade agreements on duty reduction may be limited for this specific code. However, goods originating from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs may still benefit from preferential treatment, even if the MFN rate is already zero, by ensuring certainty of duty-free entry and potentially simplifying other import procedures. Common agreements include NAFTA/USMCA (for North America), EU FTAs (e.g., with South Korea, Japan), or GSP for developing countries. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form A for GSP, specific FTA certificates like the USMCA Certificate of Origin) proving the goods meet the rules of origin criteria of the respective agreement. Customs brokers should advise importers to secure this documentation from their suppliers.
What specific documentation, beyond standard import paperwork, might be required for importing goods classified under HS 2901.21, considering its chemical nature?
Beyond standard import documentation such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, importers of HS 2901.21 (Ethylene) may need to provide additional documentation due to its chemical properties. This can include a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to comply with hazard communication standards and ensure safe handling and transportation. Depending on the volume and end-use, permits or licenses from environmental protection agencies or chemical control authorities might be necessary in some jurisdictions. For bulk shipments, certificates of analysis or purity may be requested by customs or regulatory bodies to confirm the product's specifications. Importers should consult with their customs broker and the relevant national regulatory bodies to ascertain all specific requirements prior to shipment.