HS 290311 Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons
Quick Answer: HS 2903.11 covers chloromethane (methyl chloride), a saturated chlorinated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons. This chemical is a colorless, flammable gas used as a refrigerant, a methylating agent in organic synthesis, and in silicone production. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. For the US, the general most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate is 5.5% ad valorem, but many countries benefit from "Free" duty under various trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, KR). Certain countries may face a prohibitive 125% duty. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage preferential trade agreements and avoid penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903110000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903110010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 29031100 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2903110020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2903.11?
Imports of Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290311 cover?
This subheading covers chloromethane, also known as methyl chloride, which is a saturated chlorinated derivative of an acyclic hydrocarbon. Specifically, it falls under Heading 2903, which encompasses halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Chloromethane is a colorless, flammable gas with a sweet, ethereal odor, primarily used as a methylating agent in chemical synthesis and in the production of silicones. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 confirm its inclusion, and both the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system explicitly list "Chloromethane (methyl chloride)" under this 8-digit code, ensuring consistent global classification for this specific chemical compound.
What falls outside HS 290311?
The following products are excluded from HS 290311: other saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, such as dichloromethane (methylene chloride) and chloroform (trichloromethane), which are classified under HS 290312 and HS 290313, respectively. Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives, like vinyl chloride (chloroethene), are classified under HS 290321. Furthermore, mixtures of halogenated derivatives, unless specifically provided for, or products that have undergone further chemical transformation beyond simple halogenation, would also be excluded. For instance, polymers of vinyl chloride, even though derived from a chlorinated hydrocarbon, are classified in Chapter 39 as plastics, not in Chapter 29.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290311?
A common error is misclassifying other single-carbon chlorinated methanes, such as dichloromethane or trichloromethane, under HS 290311, which is exclusively for chloromethane. This mistake often arises from a lack of precise chemical identification or an assumption that all single-carbon chlorinated derivatives fall under the initial subheading. Proper application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial. Importers must ensure they accurately identify the specific chemical compound, as the HS nomenclature provides distinct subheadings for each of these closely related but chemically distinct substances, preventing incorrect duty assessment and regulatory compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 290311?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290311 involves first confirming the chemical identity of the product as chloromethane (methyl chloride) through chemical analysis, safety data sheets (SDS), or certificates of analysis. Importers and customs brokers should then consult the official Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) or the EU TARIC database to verify the 8-digit subheading. It is essential to ensure that the product is a pure, saturated chlorinated derivative of an acyclic hydrocarbon and specifically chloromethane, not a mixture or another related compound. Maintaining detailed product specifications and documentation is critical to support the classification, especially during customs audits, ensuring compliance with import regulations and accurate duty calculations, which for chloromethane is typically 3.5% ad valorem in the US.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.11, and what preferential rates might apply?
For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2903.11, 'Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States imposes an MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the precise MFN rate. Preferential duty rates, often 'Free,' may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs. For example, the US offers 'Free' duty for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) under specific trade agreements. Eligibility for preferential rates typically requires meeting Rules of Origin criteria and providing appropriate documentation, such as a certificate of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for determining if a chemical product falls under HS 2903.11?
HS 2903.11 specifically covers 'Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons.' The primary classification criteria, as per the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN), are: 1. Chemical Structure: The product must be a derivative of an acyclic hydrocarbon, meaning it does not contain ring structures (e.g., benzene rings). 2. Saturation: The hydrocarbon chain must be saturated, meaning it contains only single carbon-carbon bonds. 3. Chlorination: The derivative must be chlorinated, meaning it contains one or more chlorine atoms replacing hydrogen atoms. Common examples include chloromethane, dichloromethane, chloroform, and carbon tetrachloride. It is crucial to distinguish these from unsaturated or cyclic chlorinated derivatives, which would fall under other HS subheadings (e.g., 2903.12 for unsaturated acyclic, or 2903.2 for cyclic derivatives). A detailed chemical analysis and understanding of the product's molecular structure are essential for accurate classification.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing chemicals classified under HS 2903.11?
Importers of chemicals under HS 2903.11 generally need to provide standard customs documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Beyond these, specific requirements for chemical products often include: 1. Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Essential for identifying the chemical's properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures, often required by environmental and safety agencies. 2. Certificate of Analysis (CoA): Verifies the chemical composition, purity, and quality, ensuring it meets specifications. 3. Certificate of Origin: If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid certificate of origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, or a self-certification statement) is mandatory to prove the goods meet the applicable Rules of Origin. 4. Import Licenses/Permits: Depending on the specific chemical and the importing country's regulations, certain substances within this category may be subject to import licensing or permits, especially if they are controlled substances or precursors. Importers should verify national chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU).
Are there any common trade agreements or special provisions that significantly impact the duty rates for HS 2903.11?
Yes, numerous trade agreements and special provisions can significantly impact the duty rates for HS 2903.11. For instance, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the EU's network of FTAs (e.g., with Japan, Korea, Canada), and the UK's independent trade agreements (e.g., with Australia, Japan) often provide duty-free access for eligible goods originating from partner countries. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs, offered by developed countries to developing nations, can also grant duty-free or reduced-duty access, though eligibility for specific products and countries can change. It's critical for importers to: 1. Identify the country of origin of the chemical. 2. Determine if a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or GSP program exists between the exporting and importing countries. 3. Verify if the product meets the specific Rules of Origin outlined in the agreement. 4. Ensure proper documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) is obtained and presented to customs authorities to claim the preferential treatment. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate.