HS 290351 Unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons
Quick Answer: HS code 290351 covers unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons. In plain terms, this includes organic chemical compounds that contain fluorine atoms, have at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond (making them "unsaturated"), and have a linear or branched chain structure without rings ("acyclic"). Common examples include certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used as refrigerants, propellants, or intermediates in chemical synthesis. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the specific chemical structure is crucial for accurate classification. Duty rates vary significantly: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. The US rate is 3.7% ad valorem, with many preferential trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR, SG) offering duty-free entry. Importers should verify eligibility for these programs to optimize costs. Exporters should be aware of potential import restrictions or environmental regulations related to fluorinated compounds in destination markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903510010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903510090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903510000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903510020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903510090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903510000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903510010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903510020 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903511000 | 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 2903.51?
Imports of Unsaturated fluorinated 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 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 290351 cover?
This subheading covers unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, specifically referring to compounds where hydrogen atoms in an acyclic hydrocarbon chain have been replaced by fluorine atoms, and the molecule contains at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond. These are organic chemical compounds that are not cyclic in structure, contain fluorine, and possess unsaturation. Examples include 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) when it is unsaturated, or other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs) that meet the unsaturated and acyclic criteria, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and further detailed in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29.
What falls outside HS 290351?
The following products are excluded from HS 290351: Saturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, such as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) in its saturated form, which would typically fall under HS 2903.45. Also excluded are cyclic fluorinated hydrocarbons (e.g., fluorobenzene), which are classified under other subheadings within Chapter 29, specifically those covering cyclic compounds. Furthermore, halogenated derivatives containing halogens other than or in addition to fluorine (e.g., chlorofluorocarbons or bromofluorocarbons) are excluded, as this subheading is specific to *fluorinated* derivatives. Polymers of these compounds are also excluded, as Chapter 39 covers plastics and articles thereof, even if derived from monomers classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290351?
A common error is misclassifying saturated fluorinated acyclic hydrocarbons under HS 290351, failing to recognize the "unsaturated" requirement. For instance, a saturated hydrofluorocarbon like HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane) is correctly classified under HS 2903.45. Another frequent mistake involves classifying compounds that contain other halogens in addition to fluorine, or instead of fluorine, under this subheading, despite the explicit "fluorinated" designation. Importers must carefully apply 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, ensuring the "unsaturated" and "fluorinated" criteria are strictly met for this specific subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 290351?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290351 involves a meticulous review of the chemical structure to confirm both the acyclic nature and the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond (unsaturation), along with the exclusive presence of fluorine as the halogen. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed chemical analysis or certificate of analysis from the manufacturer, clearly indicating the chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula. This documentation is crucial to verify that the product is indeed an unsaturated fluorinated derivative of an acyclic hydrocarbon. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 and specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) for precise definitions and examples to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties or delays.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.51 'Unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons' in key global markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2903.51 vary by importing country. For instance, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem rate. Other jurisdictions may have rates such as 4.00% or 25% ad valorem. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and current MFN rates, as these can be subject to change.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry for 'Unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons' (HS 2903.51) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, products classified under HS 2903.51 may be eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or preferential programs, provided all rules of origin are met. Specific preference programs and agreements that typically offer duty-free entry for this HS code include: 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 the necessary certificates of origin or declarations to claim these preferential rates, as outlined in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
What are the key classification criteria for determining if a chemical compound falls under HS 2903.51?
HS 2903.51 specifically covers 'Unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons.' The critical classification criteria, based on the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN), are: 1. Acyclic Hydrocarbon Base: The compound must be derived from an open-chain hydrocarbon structure. 2. Unsaturation: The presence of at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond within the acyclic hydrocarbon chain. 3. Fluorination: The compound must contain fluorine atoms directly attached to the carbon skeleton. 4. Derivatives: It must be a derivative of these hydrocarbons, meaning the original hydrocarbon structure has been modified by the introduction of fluorine and retaining unsaturation. The absence of other functional groups that would confer classification in a more specific heading of Chapter 29 is also a consideration. For example, if it contained an alcohol group, it might fall under a different heading.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing 'Unsaturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons' (HS 2903.51)?
Beyond standard customs documentation such as commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, importers of chemical products under HS 2903.51 may face additional regulatory requirements depending on the destination country and the specific chemical's properties. In many jurisdictions, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is mandatory for chemical imports. Furthermore, certain fluorinated compounds may be subject to environmental regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) or controls under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol if they are ozone-depleting substances, or the Stockholm Convention if they are persistent organic pollutants. Importers should verify national chemical inventory listing requirements and any import permit or registration obligations with the relevant environmental or chemical regulatory authorities prior to shipment.