HS 290362 Ethylene dibromide (ISO) (1,2-dibromoethane)
Quick Answer: HS code 290362 specifically covers Ethylene dibromide (ISO), also known as 1,2-dibromoethane. This chemical compound is a halogenated derivative of hydrocarbons, primarily used as a fumigant, a lead scavenger in gasoline, and an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds. Importers and exporters should note varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50%. In the US, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 5.4% ad valorem, with a significant number of preferential trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL, KR) offering duty-free treatment. However, the Column 2 rate for non-MFN countries is 46.3%. Due to its historical use as a pesticide and its environmental impact, trade in this substance may be subject to specific regulatory controls beyond standard customs procedures, such as those under the Rotterdam Convention or national chemical control laws.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903620000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903620000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903621000 | 5.4% | 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 2903.62?
Imports of Ethylene dibromide (ISO) (1,2-dibromoethane) 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, 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290362 cover?
This subheading covers Ethylene dibromide (ISO), also known as 1,2-dibromoethane, which is a halogenated derivative of hydrocarbons falling under Heading 2903 of the Harmonized System. As per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and further defined in national tariffs like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this specific chemical compound is a saturated acyclic hydrocarbon derivative containing two bromine atoms. It is primarily used as a fumigant, a lead scavenger in gasoline, and an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds, distinguishing it precisely by its chemical structure and common nomenclature.
What falls outside HS 290362?
The following products are excluded from HS 290362: other dibromoethanes, such as 1,1-dibromoethane, which, despite being an isomer, possesses a different chemical structure and distinct properties, thus classifying under other specific subheadings within Heading 2903, typically 2903.69. Similarly, other brominated ethanes like bromoethane (ethyl bromide) or tribromoethane are excluded, as they do not possess the exact 1,2-dibromoethane structure. Mixtures containing ethylene dibromide but formulated for specific uses, where the ethylene dibromide is not the sole or principal constituent, might fall under different chapters or headings, depending on the nature of the mixture and its intended application.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290362?
A common error is misclassifying other brominated ethanes or isomers as 1,2-dibromoethane due to a superficial understanding of chemical nomenclature, particularly confusing 1,1-dibromoethane with 1,2-dibromoethane. This mistake often arises from failing to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers sometimes overlook the precise chemical name and structure, relying instead on generic descriptions. Another error involves classifying mixtures where 1,2-dibromoethane is present but not the predominant component, failing to consider GRI 3(b) for mixtures, which would direct classification based on the essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 290362?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290362 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical identity, specifically confirming it is 1,2-dibromoethane (Ethylene dibromide). Importers and customs brokers should obtain the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry number (CAS No. 106-93-4) and the precise chemical name to ensure alignment with the WCO HS Nomenclature and national tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC. It is crucial to verify the product's purity and ensure it is not a mixture where another component imparts the essential character. In cases of doubt, consulting a chemical expert or seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2903.62 (Ethylene dibromide (ISO) (1,2-dibromoethane)) in key markets?
The MFN import duty rates for HS code 2903.62 vary by country. For example, the United States applies a rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a standard MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem rate. Importers should always verify the current MFN rate with the specific customs authority of the importing country, as rates can be subject to change based on national tariff schedules.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Ethylene dibromide (HS 2903.62) under common trade agreements?
Yes, significant preferential duty treatment is available for HS 2903.62 under various trade agreements. For instance, imports into the United States 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) may be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Similar preferential rates, including 'Free', may apply under the EU's extensive network of free trade agreements (e.g., with countries designated 'A+', 'D', 'E', 'P', 'S'). Importers must ensure they possess valid certificates of origin (e.g., Form A, EUR.1, or origin declarations) to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Ethylene dibromide under HS 2903.62?
HS code 2903.62 specifically covers 'Ethylene dibromide (ISO) (1,2-dibromoethane)'. The classification criteria are straightforward: the product must chemically be 1,2-dibromoethane. This falls under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Organic chemicals', and more specifically within subheading 2903 for 'Halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons'. The 'ISO' designation indicates its common name as recognized by the International Organization for Standardization. Importers should ensure that the chemical name, CAS number (if available), and chemical structure on product documentation precisely match this description to avoid misclassification.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing Ethylene dibromide (HS 2903.62)?
In addition to standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Ethylene dibromide (HS 2903.62) should be prepared to provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or similar chemical specification sheet to confirm the product's identity and purity. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or a Free Trade Agreement declaration) is mandatory. Due to its chemical nature, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS/SDS) are also crucial for hazard communication and may be required by customs or other regulatory agencies (e.g., environmental or health authorities) in the importing country.
Are there any unusually high duty rates or specific trade restrictions to be aware of for HS 2903.62?
While many MFN rates are moderate (e.g., 4.0% to 5.5%), some countries may apply significantly higher duties, particularly if the product is deemed sensitive or if specific trade remedies (like anti-dumping or countervailing duties) are in place. For instance, a duty rate of 46.3% ad valorem is noted in some tariff schedules, which could indicate such measures or a non-MFN rate for certain origins. Importers must rigorously check the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for any additional duties, taxes, or non-tariff barriers. Furthermore, as a halogenated organic compound, Ethylene dibromide may be subject to import restrictions, licensing requirements, or environmental regulations (e.g., under the Montreal Protocol or national chemical control laws) in various jurisdictions, irrespective of the duty rate.