HS 290321 Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons
Quick Answer: HS Code 2903.21 covers unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, specifically 1,2-dichloroethane (ethylene dichloride). This chemical compound is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a precursor to PVC plastic, and as a solvent. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU and US generally impose 5.5% ad valorem. The US also offers preferential duty treatment (Free) for goods originating from numerous countries under various trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). A significant "column 2" duty rate of 76% applies to goods from non-MFN countries. Due to its industrial importance, accurate classification is crucial for compliance and duty optimization.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903210000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903210000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903210000 | 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 2903.21?
Imports of Unsaturated 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 290321 cover?
This subheading covers unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, specifically 1,2-dichloroethane (ethylene dichloride). As defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this particular chemical compound is a saturated acyclic hydrocarbon derivative where two hydrogen atoms have been replaced by chlorine atoms, and the parent hydrocarbon is ethane. It is a key intermediate in the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which is then polymerized to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Its chemical structure is CH2Cl-CH2Cl, distinguishing it clearly within the broader category of halogenated derivatives.
What falls outside HS 290321?
The following products are excluded from HS 290321: other unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, which would fall under HS 290329. For example, vinyl chloride (chloroethylene), with the chemical formula CH2=CHCl, is an unsaturated chlorinated derivative of an acyclic hydrocarbon (ethylene) but is specifically classified under HS 290321. Additionally, saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons other than 1,2-dichloroethane, such as chloroform (trichloromethane) or carbon tetrachloride, are classified under HS 290319. Products that are mixtures or preparations containing 1,2-dichloroethane but are not solely the pure chemical compound may also be excluded if the mixture's essential character is imparted by other components, potentially leading to classification elsewhere in Chapter 38.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290321?
A common error is misclassifying other unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, such as vinyl chloride (chloroethylene), under HS 290321. While both are chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, HS 290321 is specifically reserved for 1,2-dichloroethane. Vinyl chloride, being an unsaturated compound, is correctly classified under HS 290321. Importers often overlook the specific chemical name and structure, relying only on the broader description of "unsaturated chlorinated derivatives," which can lead to incorrect application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1. Careful attention to the specific chemical nomenclature and the precise scope of the subheading is crucial to avoid these errors and ensure accurate duty assessment.
How should importers classify products under HS 290321?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290321 involves first confirming the precise chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should obtain the chemical name (1,2-dichloroethane), CAS number, and chemical formula (CH2Cl-CH2Cl) from the manufacturer's specifications or safety data sheets (SDS). Verify that the product is indeed 1,2-dichloroethane and not another chlorinated derivative, especially other unsaturated ones. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 and subheading 290321 for definitive guidance. If there is any doubt, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.21, and are there any significant variations?
For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2903.21, 'Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates can vary by importing country. For example, the United States typically applies an MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database shows a common MFN 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 and current MFN duty rate, as these are subject to change based on national legislation and international agreements. Some countries may also apply higher 'Column 2' rates (e.g., 76%) for goods originating from countries not afforded MFN status.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for HS 2903.21, and what documentation is required to claim these benefits?
Many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for goods classified under HS 2903.21 when originating from eligible partner countries. For imports into the United States, duty-free status ('Free') is available under agreements such as the Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (BH), Chile Free Trade Agreement (CL), Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CO), Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA, represented by 'D' and 'E' for El Salvador), Israel Free Trade Agreement (IL), Jordan Free Trade Agreement (JO), Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KR), Morocco Free Trade Agreement (MA), Oman Free Trade Agreement (OM), Panama Trade Promotion Agreement (PA), Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PE), and Singapore Free Trade Agreement (SG). To claim these preferential duty rates, importers must provide valid proof of origin, typically a Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form A, EUR.1, or a free trade agreement-specific declaration) issued by the exporter or producer, demonstrating that the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective agreement. Customs brokers require this documentation to properly declare the goods and apply the preferential tariff treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons' under HS 2903.21, and how do they differ from similar chemical classifications?
The key classification criteria for HS 2903.21 focus on the chemical structure of the compound. Specifically, it covers derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons that are both 'unsaturated' (meaning they contain at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond) and 'chlorinated' (meaning they have chlorine atoms directly attached to the carbon chain). This subheading is distinct from other parts of Chapter 29. For instance, saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons (e.g., chloroform) fall under HS 2903.1, while unchlorinated unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons (e.g., ethylene) are in HS 2901. The presence of both unsaturation and chlorination in an acyclic hydrocarbon structure is critical for classification under 2903.21. Importers should ensure their product's chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula clearly align with these criteria, often requiring a chemical analysis report or manufacturer's declaration for accurate classification.
Are there any specific import documentation or regulatory requirements beyond standard customs declarations for chemicals classified under HS 2903.21?
Beyond standard customs declarations (e.g., commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), imports of chemicals under HS 2903.21 may be subject to additional regulatory requirements depending on the specific chemical compound and the importing country. For instance, in the United States, certain chemicals may be regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), requiring TSCA certification. The European Union's REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation may require pre-registration or registration for substances imported in certain quantities. Importers should verify if their specific product within 2903.21 is listed under any national chemical inventories or subject to specific import licenses, permits, or reporting obligations from agencies responsible for environmental protection, public health, or chemical safety. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is almost always required for chemical imports and provides crucial information for customs and regulatory compliance.