HS 290243 p-Xylene

Quick Answer: HS Code 290243 covers p-Xylene, a colorless, flammable aromatic hydrocarbon primarily used as a chemical feedstock in the production of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), a precursor to polyester fibers and PET plastics. This essential industrial chemical is widely traded globally. For imports into the United Kingdom and the European Union, the applied Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC. Similarly, imports into the United States are classified as "Free" under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Importers and customs brokers should verify origin to ensure eligibility for preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements, though the prevailing MFN rates are already zero across these major jurisdictions.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902430000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902430000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902430000 Free — ["liters"]

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 290243 cover?

This subheading covers p-Xylene, a specific isomer of xylene, which is an aromatic hydrocarbon. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 29, Heading 2902 encompasses cyclic hydrocarbons. p-Xylene is chemically defined as 1,4-dimethylbenzene, characterized by the two methyl groups attached to opposite carbon atoms on the benzene ring. This precise chemical structure distinguishes it from its isomers, o-xylene and m-xylene, which are classified under separate subheadings. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system consistently align with this WCO interpretation, ensuring uniform global classification for this key petrochemical.

What falls outside HS 290243?

The following products are excluded from HS 290243: o-Xylene (1,2-dimethylbenzene), which is classified under HS 290241, and m-Xylene (1,3-dimethylbenzene), classified under HS 290242. Mixed xylene isomers, which are not separated into their individual pure forms, are classified under HS 290244. Furthermore, other aromatic hydrocarbons, such as benzene (HS 290220) or toluene (HS 290230), are also excluded as they possess different chemical structures. Any xylene product that is not specifically the para-isomer, or is not of sufficient purity to be considered p-xylene, would fall outside this specific subheading.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 290243?

A common error is misclassifying mixed xylene isomers as pure p-xylene, or vice versa. Importers sometimes fail to distinguish between the individual isomers (ortho-, meta-, and para-) and their unseparated mixtures, leading to incorrect declarations. This often occurs when relying solely on product names without verifying the chemical purity and specific isomer content. Another mistake is classifying p-xylene under broader headings for "hydrocarbons" without identifying its specific chemical structure, which violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, requiring classification by the most specific description. Accurate chemical analysis and product specifications are crucial to avoid these errors.

How should importers classify products under HS 290243?

The correct procedure for classifying p-xylene involves first confirming the product's chemical identity as 1,4-dimethylbenzene, ensuring it is not a mixture of xylene isomers or another isomer. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name, CAS number (106-42-3 for p-xylene), and purity. This documentation provides definitive proof of the specific isomer. Then, apply General Interpretative Rule 1, which directs classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, leading directly to Heading 2902 and subsequently to subheading 290243 for p-xylene.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 290242 HS 290241 HS 290244 HS 290230 HS 290260 HS 290220

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for p-Xylene (HS 2902.43) in major markets?

For p-Xylene classified under HS 2902.43, the MFN duty rates are generally very low or free in major trading blocs. For instance, the United States (HTSUS 2902.43.00.00) applies a 'Free' rate of duty. Similarly, the European Union (TARIC 2902430000) applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, as does the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff 2902 43 00 00). Importers should always verify the current rates via the official USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff databases, as rates can be subject to change.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for p-Xylene (HS 2902.43) under common trade agreements?

Yes, due to the already low or free MFN rates, p-Xylene (HS 2902.43) often benefits from 'Free' preferential duty rates under numerous trade agreements. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), imports of p-Xylene originating from Mexico or Canada would typically enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, within the EU, goods originating from countries with preferential agreements (e.g., GSP, FTAs) would also generally be duty-free, provided all rules of origin are met. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement's origin rules and ensure proper documentation (e.g., certificate of origin) is available to claim preferential treatment.

What are the key classification criteria for p-Xylene under HS 2902.43, and what distinguishes it from other xylene isomers?

HS 2902.43 specifically covers 'p-Xylene'. The classification criteria are based on its distinct chemical structure as one of the three isomers of xylene (dimethylbenzene). p-Xylene (para-xylene) is characterized by the two methyl groups being located on opposite sides of the benzene ring. This distinguishes it from o-Xylene (ortho-xylene, HS 2902.42) where the methyl groups are adjacent, and m-Xylene (meta-xylene, HS 2902.44) where they are separated by one carbon atom. Accurate chemical analysis and product specifications are crucial for correct classification, adhering to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals of defined chemical composition.

What specific documentation is typically required for importing p-Xylene (HS 2902.43)?

Standard import documentation is required for p-Xylene (HS 2902.43), including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Given its chemical nature, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is also essential for hazard communication and regulatory compliance, particularly for transportation and handling. While p-Xylene is not typically subject to extensive import licensing in most major markets, importers should verify any specific chemical control regulations or reporting requirements in the destination country, especially concerning environmental or hazardous substance controls.

Are there any specific trade compliance considerations or restrictions for p-Xylene (HS 2902.43) related to chemical control regimes?

While p-Xylene (HS 2902.43) is a widely used industrial chemical and generally not subject to strict proliferation controls, importers should be aware of broader chemical control regimes. For example, in the U.S., the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) requires certain reporting and compliance for chemical substances. In the EU, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations apply, meaning p-Xylene must be registered for its intended uses. Importers must ensure their suppliers have met these regulatory obligations. Additionally, international shipping of chemicals requires compliance with IMDG Code (for sea), IATA DGR (for air), or ADR (for road) regulations concerning packaging, labeling, and documentation of hazardous materials.