HS 290219 Other

HS 2902.19 covers 'Other' cyclic hydrocarbons, specifically excluding benzene, toluene, xylenes, and styrene, which have their own subheadings. For many major trading blocs, the MFN duty rates for products under 2902.19 are often 0.00% ad valorem. For instance, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) typically lists a 'Free' rate for general MFN treatment (Column 1, General). Similarly, the EU TARIC database often shows a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for this subheading. However, it is crucial to verify the specific country of import, as some nations may apply different MFN rates, potentially up to 25% ad valorem in certain jurisdictions. Importers should consult the official tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and current information.

For imports into the United States under HS 2902.19, several preferential trade agreements and programs can offer duty reductions or exemptions. Given the typical MFN rate of 'Free' for this subheading in the HTSUS, the direct impact of preferential agreements on duty rates might be minimal unless the MFN rate changes or specific trade remedies apply. However, it's still important for compliance and origin purposes. Agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia, Chile, Korea, and Singapore, and preference programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) (if applicable to the specific product and country) could confirm duty-free treatment. Importers should ensure they meet the Rules of Origin requirements of the respective agreement and possess the necessary Certificates of Origin or declarations to claim preferential treatment.

The primary classification criterion for HS 2902.19 is that the product must be a cyclic hydrocarbon that is not specifically provided for in subheadings 2902.11 (benzene), 2902.12 (toluene), 2902.13 (xylenes), or 2902.14 (styrene). This subheading acts as a residual category for other aromatic or alicyclic hydrocarbons. Common challenges include accurately identifying the chemical structure to confirm it is indeed a cyclic hydrocarbon and ensuring it does not fall under more specific subheadings within Chapter 29 or even Chapter 27 (e.g., for petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, if not chemically pure). Importers should have detailed chemical analyses, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and technical specifications available to support their classification. WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide further guidance on the scope of hydrocarbons.

For chemicals classified under HS 2902.19, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Beyond these, specific to chemicals, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is almost universally required by customs authorities and other regulatory bodies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU) to assess potential hazards and ensure compliance with chemical control regulations. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may also be requested to verify the purity and composition of the substance, supporting the classification. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin or a valid origin declaration from the exporter is mandatory. Importers should also be aware of any country-specific chemical registration or import permit requirements that might apply to the specific 'other' cyclic hydrocarbon being imported.