HS 290260 Ethylbenzene
Quick Answer: HS code 290260 covers Ethylbenzene, a colorless, flammable liquid hydrocarbon primarily used as an intermediate in the production of styrene, which is then used to make plastics and synthetic rubber. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the duty rates is crucial. The United Kingdom and the European Union apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate to Ethylbenzene. In contrast, the United States imposes a more complex duty structure, with a general rate of Free, but also a specific rate of 15.4¢/kg + 55% ad valorem for certain origins, as detailed in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. This disparity highlights the importance of origin determination and careful classification to ensure compliance and optimize customs duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902600000 | 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.
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How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290260 cover?
This subheading covers ethylbenzene, a colorless, flammable liquid organic compound with the chemical formula C8H10. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon primarily used in the petrochemical industry as an intermediate in the production of styrene, which is then used to produce polystyrene plastics. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 confirm that this heading encompasses separate chemically defined organic compounds. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both specifically list "Ethylbenzene" under subheading 2902.60.00, affirming its precise scope as a distinct chemical entity.
What falls outside HS 290260?
The following products are excluded from HS 290260: mixtures containing ethylbenzene, which would generally be classified under other subheadings within Chapter 29 or Chapter 38 depending on their composition and intended use, particularly if they are not separate chemically defined compounds. For example, a mixture of ethylbenzene and other xylene isomers, if not separated, would typically fall under 2902.44 ("Mixed xylene isomers"). Furthermore, ethylbenzene that is part of a petroleum fraction, such as certain naphthas, would be classified under Chapter 27, specifically under headings like 2710, as these are not separate chemically defined organic compounds but rather complex mixtures derived from petroleum refining processes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290260?
A common error is misclassifying ethylbenzene when it is present in a mixture, rather than as a separate chemically defined compound. Importers sometimes incorrectly apply HS 290260 to products that are predominantly ethylbenzene but contain other significant components, leading to misclassification. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product is not a separate chemically defined ethylbenzene but a mixture, GRI 3(b) or 3(c) may apply, directing classification to the component that gives the mixture its essential character or to the heading that occurs last in numerical order among those equally meriting consideration. Always ensure the product is a pure, separate chemical compound.
How should importers classify products under HS 290260?
The correct procedure for classifying ethylbenzene involves verifying that the product is indeed a separate chemically defined organic compound of ethylbenzene (C8H10) and not a mixture. 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, CAS number (100-41-4 for ethylbenzene), purity, and chemical formula. This documentation is crucial for demonstrating that the product meets the "separate chemically defined organic compound" criterion of Chapter 29. Furthermore, cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, USITC HTS, and EU TARIC system for subheading 2902.60.00 will confirm the appropriate classification and ensure compliance with international trade regulations.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60) in key markets?
The MFN import duty rates for Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60) vary by importing country. For example, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the MFN (General) duty rate for 2902.60.00.00 is 0.0% ad valorem. Similarly, the European Union's TARIC database indicates a conventional duty rate of 0.0% ad valorem for HS 2902.60.00.00. The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a duty rate of 0.0% ad valorem for this heading. Importers should always verify the current rates with the official tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60) depending on the country of origin and the trade agreements in effect. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating in Mexico or Canada generally qualify for a Free duty rate into the U.S., provided all rules of origin are met. Similarly, the EU has numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) that could grant preferential treatment (e.g., 0.0% duty) for Ethylbenzene originating from partner countries. Importers should consult the specific rules of origin for relevant trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, EU FTAs, UK FTAs) and ensure proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, is available to claim preferential tariffs.
What are the key classification criteria for Ethylbenzene under HS 2902.60, and what distinguishes it from other aromatic hydrocarbons?
Ethylbenzene is classified under HS 2902.60 as an 'Acyclic hydrocarbons' specifically 'Ethylbenzene'. The primary classification criterion is its chemical structure: it is an aromatic hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C8H10, consisting of a benzene ring substituted with an ethyl group. This distinguishes it from other aromatic hydrocarbons suchated as benzene (2902.20), toluene (2902.30), or xylenes (2902.4x), which have different alkyl substitutions or multiple methyl groups. The classification is straightforward for pure ethylbenzene. If it is presented in mixtures, the classification would depend on the concentration and the nature of other components, potentially falling under mixtures of hydrocarbons or other chemical headings if the ethylbenzene is not the predominant character-conferring component.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60)?
Beyond standard shipping documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Ethylbenzene (HS 2902.60) may need additional documentation. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is crucial for chemical products, providing essential information for safe handling, transport, and emergency procedures. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 certificate) is mandatory. Depending on the importing country's regulations, permits or licenses from environmental or chemical control agencies may also be required due to its nature as a chemical substance, although Ethylbenzene is generally not subject to stringent import controls in major markets unless specific end-uses are regulated. Importers should verify national chemical import regulations.