HS 290290 Other

Quick Answer: HS code 290290, "Other," encompasses various cyclic hydrocarbons not specifically classified elsewhere within heading 2902. This includes complex aromatic compounds like naphthalene, anthracene, and their derivatives, as well as other cyclic hydrocarbons such as styrene and ethylbenzene, provided they are not in primary forms or mixtures covered by more specific subheadings. For importers and exporters, the duty rates are generally favorable. The UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC both apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. Similarly, the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) lists "Free" duty rates across its multiple tariff lines under 2902.90. This widespread duty-free treatment simplifies trade for these specific chemical products, reducing import costs and compliance burdens for businesses dealing in these essential industrial intermediates.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902900000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902900000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2902901000 Free — ["kg"]
290290 — — —
2902902000 Free — ["kg"]
29029030 Free — —
2902906000 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 290290 cover?

This subheading covers cyclic hydrocarbons not elsewhere specified or included within Heading 2902. Specifically, it encompasses a diverse range of cyclic hydrocarbons that do not fall under the more specific subheadings for benzene (2902.20), toluene (2902.30), xylenes (2902.41, 2902.42, 2902.43, 2902.44), or styrene (2902.50) or ethylbenzene (2902.60), or cumene (2902.70). This includes various polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other complex cyclic structures, provided they remain simple hydrocarbons without additional functional groups that would place them in other chapters or headings. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2902 confirm this residual scope for "Other" cyclic hydrocarbons, aligning with definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system.

What falls outside HS 290290?

The following products are excluded from HS 290290: cyclic hydrocarbons that contain oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, or other non-carbon/hydrogen elements, as these would be classified in subsequent chapters or headings based on their principal functional group (e.g., phenols in 2907, amines in 2921). Additionally, cyclic hydrocarbons that are specifically enumerated in other subheadings of Heading 2902, such as pure benzene (2902.20) or mixed xylenes (2902.44), are excluded. Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, even if containing cyclic hydrocarbons, are generally classified in Chapter 27, unless they are separate chemically defined compounds. For example, a mixture of cyclic hydrocarbons used as a fuel would typically fall under Chapter 27, not 290290.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 290290?

A common error is misclassifying mixtures of cyclic hydrocarbons that are not chemically defined separate compounds. Importers sometimes attempt to classify complex hydrocarbon mixtures under 290290, when in fact, if they are not pure or separate chemically defined compounds, they should be classified in Chapter 27 as petroleum oils or similar products. Another mistake involves overlooking the presence of minor functional groups, which, even if not the primary characteristic, can shift a product out of Chapter 29 entirely or into a more specific heading within Chapter 29. Applying General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, the legal text of Heading 2902 explicitly limits its scope to "Cyclic hydrocarbons," meaning the presence of other elements or functional groups typically necessitates classification elsewhere, often under GRI 3(a) or 3(b) if a mixture.

How should importers classify products under HS 290290?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290290 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition and purity. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed a cyclic hydrocarbon and not a derivative containing other functional groups. Next, they must ensure it is not specifically enumerated in any other subheading of Heading 2902 (e.g., benzene, toluene, xylenes, styrene, ethylbenzene, cumene). If it is a chemically defined separate compound and meets these criteria, then 290290 is the appropriate classification. Always consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2902 and cross-reference with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC to ensure consistency and compliance with current regulations, especially for complex or novel cyclic hydrocarbon structures.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 292990 HS 290219 HS 291090 HS 292029 HS 291990 HS 293090

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

FAQ

What is the import duty rate for products classified under HS 2902.90 in major markets?

For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2902.90, which covers 'Cyclic hydrocarbons: Other,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally 'Free' or '0.00% ad valorem' in many major trading blocs. For instance, the MFN duty rate for imports into the United States (per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule) is Free. Similarly, the EU TARIC and UK Trade Tariff also list a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for this subheading. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country and origin, as preferential trade agreements or specific national provisions could apply.

What types of chemical products are classified under HS 2902.90 'Other'?

HS 2902.90 'Other' serves as a residual subheading for cyclic hydrocarbons that are not specifically enumerated in subheadings 2902.11 through 2902.80. This typically includes complex cyclic hydrocarbons that are not benzene, toluene, xylenes, styrene, ethylbenzene, cumene, or other specific single cyclic hydrocarbons or mixtures thereof. Examples might include certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or other less common cyclic hydrocarbon compounds, provided they meet the general chapter notes for Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) and are not mixtures classifiable elsewhere. Importers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 for detailed classification guidance, especially Note 1 to Chapter 29 regarding separate chemically defined organic compounds.

Are there any specific documentation requirements for importing chemicals under HS 2902.90?

While HS 2902.90 generally covers organic chemicals, specific documentation requirements can vary by country and the nature of the chemical. Standard import documentation will always include a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. For chemical products, additional documentation often required includes a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide information on potential hazards and safe handling. Depending on the specific chemical and its end-use, permits or licenses from environmental agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU) or chemical control authorities might be necessary, especially if the substance is regulated under conventions like the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) or national chemical inventory lists (e.g., TSCA in the US). Importers should confirm with their customs broker or relevant regulatory bodies in the destination country.

Which trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for HS 2902.90?

Given that the MFN duty rate for HS 2902.90 is often 'Free' or '0.00% ad valorem' in many major economies, preferential trade agreements may not result in a lower duty rate for this specific subheading. However, utilizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential scheme (such as GSP – Generalized System of Preferences) can still be beneficial by confirming the 'Free' status and potentially streamlining customs clearance or providing other non-tariff advantages. For example, products originating from countries party to agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU-Japan EPA, or UK-Australia FTA would generally be eligible for duty-free treatment under those agreements, aligning with the MFN rate. Importers should ensure they meet the Rules of Origin criteria of the relevant agreement to claim preferential treatment, even if the duty rate is already zero.