HS 290313 Chloroform (trichloromethane)
Quick Answer: HS code 290313 specifically covers Chloroform, also known as trichloromethane. This chemical compound is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet odor, primarily used as a solvent, in the production of refrigerants, and historically as an anesthetic. For importers and exporters, understanding the varying duty rates is crucial. The UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty. Within the EU, the standard rate is 5.50% ad valorem. In the US, the general most-favored-nation (MFN) rate is 5.5% ad valorem, though preferential duty-free treatment is available under various free trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, KR, SG). A higher column 2 rate of 32% applies to certain non-MFN countries. Due to its historical use and potential health implications, trade in chloroform may be subject to specific regulatory controls beyond standard customs procedures, requiring careful compliance checks.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903130000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903130000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903130000 | 5.5% | 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 2903.13?
Imports of Chloroform (trichloromethane) 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?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290313 cover?
This subheading covers chloroform, chemically known as trichloromethane, which is a halogenated derivative of hydrocarbons. Specifically, it falls under Heading 2903, which encompasses halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 confirm that this subheading is dedicated solely to chloroform. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, precisely define 2903.13.00 as "Chloroform (trichloromethane)," indicating its specific chemical identity and ensuring consistent global classification for this organic compound.
What falls outside HS 290313?
The following products are excluded from HS 290313: other halogenated derivatives of methane, such as dichloromethane (methylene chloride) or carbon tetrachloride (tetrachloromethane), which are classified under HS 2903.12 or HS 2903.19, respectively. Mixtures containing chloroform but with other active ingredients that impart a different character to the product would generally be classified elsewhere, potentially under a different heading or chapter, depending on the nature of the mixture and its primary function. For instance, pharmaceutical preparations containing chloroform as an ingredient, but formulated for specific therapeutic uses, would typically fall under Chapter 30, not Chapter 29, due to their prepared nature and intended application.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290313?
A common error is misclassifying other chlorinated methanes as chloroform, or vice versa, due to their similar chemical structures and names. For example, dichloromethane (methylene chloride) or carbon tetrachloride are sometimes confused with chloroform, leading to incorrect classification under HS 290313 instead of their specific subheadings like 2903.12 or 2903.19. This mistake often arises from insufficient attention to the precise chemical name and formula. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial. Importers must verify the exact chemical identity (trichloromethane) to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 290313?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290313 involves verifying the precise chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product, which clearly states the chemical name as "chloroform" or "trichloromethane" and its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number (67-66-3). This documentation provides definitive proof of the product's composition. Subsequently, cross-referencing this information with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 and the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC) for subheading 2903.13.00 will confirm the accurate classification. Always ensure the product is not a mixture that would alter its essential character.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Chloroform (HS 2903.13) in key markets, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN import duty rate for Chloroform (trichloromethane) under HS 2903.13 varies by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate. 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 consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the precise and most current MFN rate, as these are subject to change based on national trade policy and WCO recommendations. These rates apply to goods originating from countries that do not have a preferential trade agreement or are not eligible for special tariff programs.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry or reduced rates for Chloroform (HS 2903.13) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, Chloroform (HS 2903.13) can often qualify for duty-free entry under various preferential trade agreements or programs, provided all origin requirements are met. Examples include: the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries (code 'A'), Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) 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 must ensure they possess valid Certificates of Origin or equivalent documentation to claim these preferential rates. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), goods meeting the rules of origin would be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for Chloroform under HS 2903.13, and what common errors should importers avoid?
Chloroform is classified under HS 2903.13 as 'Derivatives of hydrocarbons; halogenated; saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; chloroform (trichloromethane)'. The primary classification criterion is its chemical identity as trichloromethane. Importers must ensure that the product is pure chloroform or a mixture where chloroform is the predominant active ingredient and defines the character of the product. Common classification errors include misidentifying mixtures where chloroform is a minor component, or confusing it with other chlorinated methanes like dichloromethane (HS 2903.12) or carbon tetrachloride (HS 2903.14). Accurate chemical analysis and product specifications are crucial for correct classification, adhering to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing Chloroform (HS 2903.13) due to its chemical nature?
Yes, beyond standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importing Chloroform (HS 2903.13) often involves additional regulatory scrutiny due to its classification as a hazardous chemical and its potential uses. Importers may need to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for customs and regulatory agencies. Depending on the destination country, it may be subject to import permits, end-use declarations, or controls under international conventions such as the Montreal Protocol (though chloroform's ODS potential is lower than some other chlorinated methanes, its use as a feedstock is relevant) or national chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU). Importers should verify national chemical import regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits prior to shipment to avoid delays or penalties.