HS 290270 Cumene
Quick Answer: HS code 290270 specifically covers Cumene (isopropylbenzene), a colorless, flammable organic compound primarily used as an intermediate in the production of phenol and acetone. For importers and exporters, this classification is straightforward. Major jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the United States, apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, effectively making it duty-free across these key markets. This consistent "Free" duty treatment simplifies trade compliance and cost calculations for businesses dealing with Cumene, eliminating the need to factor in import duties for these regions. Importers should still ensure proper documentation and compliance with any chemical-specific regulations, such as REACH in the EU or TSCA in the US, despite the absence of import duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2902700000 | 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 290270 cover?
This subheading covers Cumene, which is isopropylbenzene, a colorless liquid organic compound with the chemical formula C6H5CH(CH3)2. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon primarily used as a raw material in the production of phenol and acetone. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature (WCO HS) and confirmed by both the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, this specific chemical compound, in its pure or commercially pure form, is precisely classified here. Its primary industrial application as an intermediate in chemical synthesis defines its scope within Heading 2902, which covers cyclic hydrocarbons.
What falls outside HS 290270?
The following products are excluded from HS 290270: mixtures containing cumene where cumene is not the predominant component by weight, which would typically be classified under other subheadings within Chapter 29 or Chapter 38 depending on their composition and intended use. For instance, petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals containing cumene, but not consisting predominantly of it, are classified in Chapter 27. Additionally, derivatives of cumene, such as cumene hydroperoxide, are excluded and fall under other specific subheadings in Chapter 29, as they are no longer the pure cyclic hydrocarbon but rather an oxygenated derivative.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290270?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures containing cumene under HS 290270 when cumene is not the single, pure chemical compound or the predominant component. Importers sometimes incorrectly apply this code to solutions or blends where cumene is merely one ingredient among several, rather than applying General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures or GRI 1 for pure substances. Another mistake is classifying cumene derivatives, such as oxidized forms, under this code instead of their specific chemical classifications elsewhere in Chapter 29, failing to recognize that the chemical structure has been altered beyond a simple cyclic hydrocarbon.
How should importers classify products under HS 290270?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290270 involves verifying the chemical identity and purity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer to confirm that the product is indeed isopropylbenzene (cumene) and not a mixture or a derivative. If the product is pure or commercially pure cumene, then HS 290270 is appropriate under GRI 1. For any mixtures, the predominant component by weight or essential character must be determined, potentially leading to classification elsewhere in Chapter 29 or other chapters, following GRI 3(b).
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Cumene (HS 2902.70) in major markets?
For Cumene classified under HS 2902.70, the MFN import duty rates are generally 0.00% ad valorem in several major markets. Specifically, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS), the European Union (under TARIC), and the United Kingdom (under the UK Global Tariff) all apply a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate for this subheading. This means Cumene can typically be imported duty-free from most countries into these territories, provided it meets all other import requirements. Importers should always verify the current rates via the official USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff databases for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Cumene (HS 2902.70) under free trade agreements?
Given that the MFN duty rate for Cumene (HS 2902.70) is already 0.00% ad valorem in many major economies like the US, EU, and UK, preferential duty rates under free trade agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes typically maintain this 'Free' status. For example, under agreements such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU-Japan EPA, or the UK-Australia FTA, goods originating from partner countries would also enter duty-free. The primary benefit of claiming preferential treatment in such cases is often related to rules of origin compliance and ensuring continued duty-free access, rather than reducing an existing duty. Importers should ensure they have the necessary certificates of origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate) to substantiate any preferential claims, even when the MFN rate is zero.
What are the key classification criteria for Cumene under HS 2902.70?
Cumene is specifically provided for under HS subheading 2902.70. This classification falls within Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Organic chemicals.' Within Chapter 29, Heading 2902 covers 'Cyclic hydrocarbons.' Cumene, chemically known as isopropylbenzene (C6H5CH(CH3)2), is an aromatic hydrocarbon with a benzene ring and an isopropyl group. Its specific chemical structure and identity as isopropylbenzene are the primary classification criteria. Customs authorities rely on chemical purity, CAS numbers (e.g., 98-82-8), and chemical nomenclature to confirm that the imported product is indeed Cumene and not a mixture or derivative that would fall under a different subheading (e.g., other cyclic hydrocarbons in 2902, or derivatives in 2903 or 2907 if it were phenol). Importers should be prepared to provide technical data sheets, Certificates of Analysis (CoA), or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to support the classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing Cumene (HS 2902.70)?
Standard import documentation is required for Cumene (HS 2902.70), including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. Given that Cumene is an organic chemical, additional documentation may be necessary depending on the country of import and specific end-use. This can include: 1. Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Essential for hazardous materials handling and regulatory compliance. 2. Certificate of Analysis (CoA): To confirm purity and chemical specifications, supporting HS classification. 3. Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) Number: Often required on documentation for chemical identification. 4. Pre-market Notification/Registration: In some jurisdictions (e.g., EU REACH, US TSCA), new or certain existing chemical substances may require registration or notification, though Cumene is a well-established chemical. 5. Permits/Licenses: While not typically restricted for import solely for its chemical nature, end-uses (e.g., precursor for certain controlled substances, or specific industrial applications) might trigger additional licensing requirements. Importers should consult the specific regulations of the importing country's environmental, health, and safety agencies.