HS 290244 Mixed xylene isomers
Quick Answer: HS code 290244 covers "Mixed xylene isomers," which are a mixture of the three isomers of xylene (ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene). These aromatic hydrocarbons are primarily used as solvents in various industries, including paints, coatings, and printing inks, and as feedstock in the production of other chemicals. For importers and exporters, the good news is that this product generally faces a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate across major jurisdictions. Specifically, the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC both list a 0.00% duty, while the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) designates it as "Free." This widespread duty-free status simplifies trade compliance, eliminating tariff costs as a barrier for businesses dealing with mixed xylene isomers.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902440000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902440000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902440000 | 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 290244 cover?
This subheading covers mixtures of xylene isomers, specifically ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene, when presented together and not separated into their individual pure forms. These are cyclic hydrocarbons, specifically benzene derivatives, falling under Heading 2902 of the Harmonized System Nomenclature, which covers cyclic hydrocarbons. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 confirm that mixtures of isomers, unless specifically provided for elsewhere, are classified under the subheading for the mixture. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC system both align with this interpretation, classifying mixed xylene isomers here, distinguishing them from the individual pure isomers.
What falls outside HS 290244?
The following products are excluded from HS 290244: individual pure xylene isomers, such as ortho-xylene (classified under 290241), meta-xylene (classified under 290242), and para-xylene (classified under 290243), which are separately enumerated. Furthermore, xylene mixtures containing other aromatic hydrocarbons in significant quantities, or those that have been further processed into derivatives, would fall outside this subheading. For instance, a mixture predominantly of xylenes but containing substantial amounts of toluene or ethylbenzene would not be classified here, as it would no longer be considered "mixed xylene isomers" in the strict sense of the subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290244?
A common error is misclassifying pure individual xylene isomers as "mixed xylene isomers" under 290244, or vice-versa. Importers sometimes overlook the specific subheadings for ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene (290241, 290242, 290243, respectively) and default to the mixed category. This contravenes 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. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures where one xylene isomer predominates to such an extent that it effectively constitutes the "pure" isomer for commercial purposes, rather than a true "mixture" of isomers.
How should importers classify products under HS 290244?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290244 involves first verifying that the product is indeed a mixture of xylene isomers and not a single, pure isomer. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or similar technical documentation from the manufacturer, clearly stating the composition and proportions of the ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene isomers present. If the documentation confirms a blend of these isomers, and no single isomer is present in such purity as to warrant classification under its specific subheading, then 290244 is appropriate. Always cross-reference with the WCO Explanatory Notes and official tariff schedules (USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to ensure consistency and compliance with national customs regulations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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 HS 2902.44 (Mixed xylene isomers) in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2902.44 are generally very low or free in major trading blocs. For example, the current MFN duty rate for 'Mixed xylene isomers' entering the United States is 0.00% ad valorem, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Similarly, the EU TARIC database indicates a conventional duty rate of 0.00% for imports into the European Union. The UK Global Tariff also lists a duty rate of 0.00% for this heading. These 'Free' rates mean no customs duties are typically applied under the MFN regime, simplifying import cost calculations for this specific product.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Mixed xylene isomers' under HS 2902.44, and how does it differ from individual xylene isomers?
HS 2902.44 specifically covers 'Mixed xylene isomers.' The primary classification criterion is that the product must be a mixture of two or more of the three xylene isomers (ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, and para-xylene). It is crucial that these are isomers and not a single, isolated isomer. For instance, pure ortho-xylene would be classified under HS 2902.41, pure meta-xylene under HS 2902.42, and pure para-xylene under HS 2902.43. The 'mixed' aspect is the distinguishing factor for 2902.44. Importers should ensure their product specifications clearly indicate the presence of multiple xylene isomers to correctly apply this subheading, avoiding misclassification that could lead to customs delays or penalties.
Are there any significant preferential duty rates or trade agreements that offer benefits for importing 'Mixed xylene isomers' (HS 2902.44)?
Given that the MFN duty rates for HS 2902.44 are already 0.00% or 'Free' in many major economies (e.g., US, EU, UK), there is typically no further duty reduction benefit to be gained through preferential trade agreements for this specific product. However, importers should still be aware of origin requirements under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU-Japan EPA, or UK-Australia FTA, as these agreements may impact other aspects of trade, such as rules of origin for statistical purposes or potential future changes in tariff rates. While the duty rate itself may not change, compliance with FTA rules of origin can be important for demonstrating eligibility for other non-tariff benefits or for future-proofing against potential tariff changes.
What specific documentation is required for the customs clearance of 'Mixed xylene isomers' (HS 2902.44)?
For the customs clearance of 'Mixed xylene isomers' under HS 2902.44, standard import documentation is required. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the product, quantity, value, and HS code; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or product specification sheet is highly recommended, and often requested by customs, to verify the chemical composition and confirm it is indeed a mixture of xylene isomers, supporting the classification under 2902.44. Depending on the country of import and specific end-use, additional regulatory documentation such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) may be required for hazardous materials handling and environmental compliance. Importers should consult with their customs broker or the relevant national customs authority for any country-specific requirements.