HS 290343 Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152) and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a)
Quick Answer: HS 2903.43 covers specific fluorinated hydrocarbons: fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152), and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a). These compounds are primarily used as refrigerants, propellants, and blowing agents. Importers and exporters should note varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. In the US, the general duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, though many countries benefit from preferential "Free" rates under various trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, KR). A 25% duty applies to products from countries without MFN status. Due to their environmental impact, these substances are subject to international regulations like the Montreal Protocol, requiring careful compliance with import/export licensing and reporting requirements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903430010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903430030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903430000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903430020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903430020 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903430000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903430010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903430030 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903431000 | 3.7% | Free (18 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 2903.43?
Imports of Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152) and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a) 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 15 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 290343 cover?
This subheading covers specific saturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, namely Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152), and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a). These are distinct chemical compounds, each with a precise molecular structure, and are explicitly enumerated within the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as detailed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). For instance, HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane) is widely used as a refrigerant, propellant, and blowing agent. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this specific enumeration, ensuring consistent global classification for these particular hydrofluorocarbons.
What falls outside HS 290343?
The following products are excluded from HS 290343: other fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, even if they are also hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), but are not specifically Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152), or 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a). For example, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a), a common refrigerant, is classified under HS 2903.45. Similarly, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which contain chlorine in addition to fluorine, are also excluded and fall under other subheadings within Heading 2903, such as 2903.11 through 2903.19 for saturated chlorofluorocarbons or 2903.49 for other saturated fluorinated derivatives.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290343?
A common error is misclassifying other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) into HS 290343 simply because they are also HFCs, without verifying the exact chemical identity. Importers sometimes overlook the specific enumeration of only three compounds: Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152), and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a). This often leads to incorrect classification of other HFCs, such as HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane) or HFC-32 (difluoromethane), which have their own distinct subheadings. Adherence to 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 to avoid such errors, as the text of the subheading is highly specific.
How should importers classify products under HS 290343?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290343 involves a precise identification of the chemical compound. Importers and customs brokers must obtain the exact chemical name and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for the substance being imported. They should then cross-reference this information with the specific enumeration in the subheading text: Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152), or 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a). If the product is one of these three, it falls under HS 290343. If it is any other fluorinated derivative, even another HFC, it must be classified elsewhere within Heading 2903 or other relevant chapters, consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes, USITC HTS, or EU TARIC for guidance on alternative subheadings.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.43 (Fluoromethane, 1,2-difluoroethane, and 1,1-difluoroethane) in key markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2903.43 can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 3.7% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem for these products. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem duty. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as these rates are subject to change based on national trade policy and WCO recommendations.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2903.43 under common Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or special programs?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, are often available for products classified under HS 2903.43 when originating from countries with which the importing nation has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential trade program. For example, the United States offers duty-free treatment for eligible goods from 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) under various FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK have numerous agreements that could grant preferential access. Importers must ensure that the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria outlined in the respective trade agreement to qualify for these reduced or zero duties. Proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is essential to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing between the specific chemicals within HS 2903.43, and how might this impact customs clearance?
HS 2903.43 specifically covers 'Fluoromethane (HFC-41), 1,2-difluoroethane (HFC-152) and 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a)'. The primary classification criterion is the precise chemical identity and molecular structure of the fluorinated ethane derivative. Customs authorities rely on chemical analysis reports, product specifications, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to verify the exact compound being imported. Misclassification, even within this specific subheading, could lead to incorrect duty assessments, delays, or penalties. For instance, while all three fall under 2903.43, ensuring the documentation accurately reflects '1,1-difluoroethane' versus '1,2-difluoroethane' is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding scrutiny during customs clearance. WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide guidance on the classification of organic chemicals.
What specific documentation is typically required for the import of chemicals under HS 2903.43, and are there any additional regulatory considerations?
Beyond standard import documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of chemicals under HS 2903.43 should be prepared to provide: 1) A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or product specification sheet confirming the chemical identity and purity. 2) A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous materials handling and regulatory compliance. 3) For preferential duty claims, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA, EUR.1, GSP Form A). Additionally, these chemicals may be subject to environmental regulations, such as those related to ozone-depleting substances or greenhouse gases, even if they are not ODS. While HFCs are not ozone-depleting, they are potent greenhouse gases. Importers in some regions (e.g., EU F-Gas Regulation, US EPA regulations) may need to comply with specific reporting, quota, or licensing requirements, or ensure the product meets certain purity or usage standards. It is imperative to check national environmental agency requirements in addition to customs regulations.