HS 290314 Carbon tetrachloride
Quick Answer: HS Code 2903.14 specifically covers Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4), a halogenated derivative of hydrocarbons. This chemical compound is primarily used as a solvent, in refrigerants, and as a precursor in the manufacture of other chemicals, though its use has been significantly restricted due to environmental concerns under the Montreal Protocol. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50%. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.3% ad valorem, with many Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners (e.g., Australia, Korea, Mexico) benefiting from a "Free" rate. Non-MFN rates can be as high as 8.5%. Due to its ozone-depleting potential, trade in Carbon Tetrachloride is subject to strict international regulations and national import/export controls, requiring careful compliance beyond standard customs procedures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903140000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903140000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903140000 | 2.3% | 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 2903.14?
Imports of Carbon tetrachloride 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 290314 cover?
This subheading covers carbon tetrachloride, a fully halogenated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons. Specifically, it refers to tetrachloromethane (CCl4), a colorless liquid with a sweet odor, historically used as a solvent, refrigerant, and in fire extinguishers. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature for Chapter 29, Heading 2903, explicitly identifies "Carbon tetrachloride" under subheading 2903.14. This classification is consistently applied across major customs territories, including the United States (as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule) and the European Union (as per the EU TARIC database), ensuring uniform interpretation for this specific chemical compound.
What falls outside HS 290314?
The following products are excluded from HS 290314: mixtures containing carbon tetrachloride that are not predominantly carbon tetrachloride by weight, which would typically be classified under other headings based on their principal constituent or function, often in Chapter 38 if they are prepared solvents or chemical preparations. For instance, a cleaning preparation containing carbon tetrachloride but also other active ingredients and formulated for a specific use would likely fall under Chapter 38, such as 3814.00 for organic composite solvents and thinners. Furthermore, other halogenated derivatives of methane, such as chloroform (trichloromethane, HS 2903.13) or dichloromethane (methylene chloride, HS 2903.12), are distinct chemical compounds and are classified under their respective specific subheadings within Heading 2903, even though they share a similar chemical family.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290314?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures containing carbon tetrachloride as pure carbon tetrachloride, or vice versa. Importers sometimes incorrectly apply HS 290314 to formulations where carbon tetrachloride is present but not the sole or principal component, leading to incorrect duty rates and regulatory compliance issues. This often violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), which dictates that mixtures should be classified according to the material or component which gives them their essential character, if applicable. Another mistake involves confusing carbon tetrachloride with other halogenated methanes, such as chloroform (2903.13), due to their similar chemical structures, necessitating precise chemical identification to ensure correct classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 290314?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290314 involves verifying the chemical identity of the substance as pure carbon tetrachloride (tetrachloromethane, CCl4). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name, CAS number (56-23-5 for carbon tetrachloride), and purity. This documentation provides definitive proof of the product's composition. If the product is a mixture, its classification must be determined by applying GRI 3, considering the essential character. For the US, consult the USITC HTSUS; for the EU, refer to the TARIC database; and for the UK, use the UK Trade Tariff, all of which confirm 2903.14 as the specific subheading for carbon tetrachloride.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14) in major markets, and are there any significant preferential rates?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14) can vary by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) rate is typically 5.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a rate of 5.5% ad valorem. However, significant preferential duty rates often apply under various free trade agreements. For example, imports into the U.S. 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) may be 'Free' (0% ad valorem) under respective trade agreements. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and verify the country of origin to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for Carbon Tetrachloride under HS 2903.14, and what distinguishes it from similar chemical classifications?
Carbon Tetrachloride is classified under HS 2903.14 as 'Derivatives of hydrocarbons, halogenated: Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons: Carbon tetrachloride.' The primary classification criterion is its chemical identity as a fully chlorinated methane (CCl4). It is a saturated acyclic hydrocarbon derivative where all hydrogen atoms have been replaced by chlorine atoms. This specific chemical structure distinguishes it from other halogenated derivatives of methane, such as chloroform (trichloromethane, HS 2903.13) or dichloromethane (methylene chloride, HS 2903.12), which have fewer chlorine atoms and at least one hydrogen atom remaining. Importers should ensure that the chemical composition precisely matches CCl4 to avoid misclassification, which can lead to penalties or delays. Purity levels and any mixtures should also be considered, as mixtures might fall under different headings if the Carbon Tetrachloride is not the predominant component.
What specific documentation is required for importing Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14), especially concerning chemical safety and environmental regulations?
Importing Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14) typically requires standard customs documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. However, due to its classification as a chemical and its environmental impact, additional specialized documentation is often mandatory. This includes a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which provides critical information on hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures. Furthermore, Carbon Tetrachloride is a controlled substance under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Therefore, importers may need to provide specific permits or licenses issued by environmental agencies (e.g., EPA in the U.S., ECHA in the EU) demonstrating compliance with national and international regulations regarding ozone-depleting substances. Verification of the importer's quota or allowance for importing such substances is often required. It is crucial for importers to consult the specific regulatory requirements of the destination country prior to shipment.
How do major free trade agreements (FTAs) impact the import duty rates for Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14), and what are the implications for sourcing strategies?
Major free trade agreements significantly impact the import duty rates for Carbon Tetrachloride (HS 2903.14) by often reducing them to 'Free' (0% ad valorem) for goods originating from partner countries. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), imports of HS 2903.14 originating from Mexico or Canada into the U.S. are duty-free. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs (e.g., with Korea, Japan, Canada) that grant preferential duty-free access for qualifying goods. The UK also has a network of FTAs that provide similar benefits. The implication for sourcing strategies is substantial: importers can achieve cost savings by sourcing Carbon Tetrachloride from FTA partner countries, provided the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria defined in the respective agreement. Customs brokers and importers should verify the origin of the goods and ensure proper documentation, such as a valid Certificate of Origin, is available to claim preferential duty treatment. This can make sourcing from FTA partners more economically attractive than from MFN countries subject to higher duty rates.