HS 290312 Dichloromethane (methylene chloride)
Quick Answer: HS Code 2903.12 specifically covers Dichloromethane, commonly known as methylene chloride. This chemical compound is a clear, colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor, primarily used as a solvent in various industrial applications, including paint stripping, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and as a blowing agent for polyurethane foams. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the duty rates is crucial. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. In the United States, the MFN rate is 3.7% ad valorem, with many countries benefiting from duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., Australia, Korea, Singapore). Conversely, goods from certain non-market economy countries may face a 25% duty. Importers should verify specific origin eligibility for preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903120000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903120000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903120000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 2903.12?
Imports of Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290312 cover?
This subheading covers Dichloromethane, commonly known as methylene chloride, a halogenated derivative of hydrocarbons specifically methane. As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (ENs) for Heading 2903, this chemical compound is a clear, colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor, widely used as a solvent, paint stripper, and propellant. Its chemical formula is CH2Cl2. The scope is precisely defined by the WCO HS nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) subheading 2903.12.00 and the EU TARIC code 2903 12 00, ensuring consistent global classification for this specific chemical.
What falls outside HS 290312?
The following products are excluded from HS 290312: other halogenated derivatives of methane, ethane, or propane, which are classified in other subheadings under Heading 2903. For example, chloroform (trichloromethane, CHCl3) is classified under HS 2903.13, and carbon tetrachloride (tetrachloromethane, CCl4) falls under HS 2903.14. Mixtures containing dichloromethane, but not consisting solely or essentially of it, might be classified elsewhere, potentially under Heading 3824 if they are prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores, or other chemical products not elsewhere specified or included, depending on their composition and primary function, as per General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290312?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures containing dichloromethane. Importers sometimes incorrectly classify a mixture under HS 290312 when dichloromethane is not the predominant component by weight or when the mixture's essential character is imparted by another substance or its intended use. For instance, a paint stripper formulation where dichloromethane is present but other active ingredients or solvents provide the primary function should be classified according to GRI 3(b) or 3(c), potentially leading to classification in Chapter 38, such as 3814.00 for organic composite solvents and thinners. Another mistake is confusing dichloromethane with other chlorinated methanes, such as chloroform, which has a distinct HS code.
How should importers classify products under HS 290312?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290312 involves verifying the chemical identity of the product as pure dichloromethane (methylene chloride). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name, CAS number (75-09-2 for dichloromethane), and purity. If the product is a mixture, apply General Interpretative Rule 3 to determine the essential character. If it is pure dichloromethane, the classification is straightforwardly HS 2903.12.00 for the US, 2903 12 00 for the EU, and 2903 12 00 for the UK. Always cross-reference with the latest national tariff schedules and WCO Explanatory Notes for definitive guidance.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) under HS 2903.12 in key markets, and are there any significant preferential rates?
The MFN duty rate for Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) under HS 2903.12 varies by importing country. For instance, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem.
Significant preferential duty rates are available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs. For imports into the U.S., Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) is eligible for 'Free' duty under agreements with countries such as 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). Importers should consult the specific country's tariff schedule (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and ensure compliance with Rules of Origin to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for Dichloromethane under HS 2903.12, and what common misclassifications should importers avoid?
Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) is classified under HS subheading 2903.12 as 'Dichloromethane (methylene chloride)'. The primary classification criterion is the specific chemical identity of the substance. Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System (HS) covers 'Organic chemicals', and heading 2903 specifically includes 'Halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons'. Subheading 2903.12 precisely identifies dichloromethane.
Common misclassifications to avoid include classifying it under broader headings for halogenated hydrocarbons if it's not specifically identified, or confusing it with mixtures. If dichloromethane is part of a mixture, its classification would depend on the nature and proportion of other components, following General Interpretative Rule 3. However, pure or commercially pure dichloromethane should always be classified under 2903.12. Importers should ensure their product's chemical name, CAS number (75-09-2), and purity align with this specific subheading.
What specific documentation is required for importing Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) under HS 2903.12, beyond standard customs entry documents?
Beyond standard customs entry documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) under HS 2903.12 may require additional documentation due to its chemical nature and potential regulatory controls. Key additional documents often include:
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Essential for hazard communication and demonstrating compliance with chemical safety regulations.
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA): Verifies the purity, composition, and specifications of the chemical, confirming it is indeed dichloromethane.
- Chemical Registration/Notification: Depending on the importing country, there may be requirements for pre-market notification or registration under chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU, UK REACH). Importers should verify if their specific product and volume trigger such requirements.
- Preferential Origin Documentation: If claiming a preferential duty rate, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or specific FTA certificate/declaration) is mandatory to substantiate the product's originating status according to the relevant trade agreement's Rules of Origin.
Importers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country, as requirements can vary.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer 'Free' duty rates for HS 2903.12, and what are the general requirements to qualify for these rates?
Yes, several trade agreements offer 'Free' duty rates for Dichloromethane (methylene chloride) under HS 2903.12, particularly for imports into the United States. These include:
- NAFTA/USMCA Successor Agreements: While NAFTA has been superseded, trade with Mexico and Canada under USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) generally provides duty-free treatment for originating goods.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): The U.S. has FTAs with numerous countries that grant duty-free access for HS 2903.12, provided the goods originate in the partner country. Examples include agreements with Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, Korea, Morocco, Oman, Panama, Peru, and Singapore.
To qualify for these 'Free' duty rates, the primary requirement is that the Dichloromethane must 'originate' in the partner country according to the specific Rules of Origin outlined in the respective trade agreement. This typically involves criteria such as:
- Wholly Obtained: The product is entirely grown, produced, or manufactured in the partner country.
- Substantial Transformation: Non-originating materials undergo sufficient processing or manufacturing in the partner country to result in a change in tariff classification (CTC) or meet a specific regional value content (RVC) threshold.
Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration from the exporter, which attests to the product's originating status. Customs authorities may request this documentation and supporting records to verify the claim.