HS 290372 Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123)
Quick Answer: HS code 2903.72 specifically covers Dichlorotrifluoroethanes, commonly known as HCFC-123. These are halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons, primarily used as refrigerants, fire suppressants, and blowing agents, particularly in industrial and commercial HVAC systems. However, due to their ozone-depleting potential, their production and consumption are regulated under the Montreal Protocol. For importers and exporters, understanding the varying duty rates is crucial. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The US tariff schedule shows more variation, with an MFN rate of 3.7% ad valorem, but also a 25% rate for certain origins (e.g., China under Section 301 tariffs) and "Free" for goods originating from countries with specific trade agreements (e.g., Australia, Korea, Singapore). Customs brokers must verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreements to determine the correct duty. Additionally, compliance with environmental regulations regarding HCFCs is paramount for all trade activities.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903720010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903720000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903720090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903720000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903720090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903720010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903720100 | 3.7% | 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 2903.72?
Imports of Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) 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 290372 cover?
This subheading covers dichlorotrifluoroethanes, specifically referring to the chemical compound known as HCFC-123. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this classification is for acyclic hydrocarbons, saturated, containing only fluorine, chlorine, and bromine. HCFC-123 (2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane) is a specific isomer within this group, primarily used as a refrigerant and fire suppression agent, and its chemical structure is precisely defined for classification purposes under this specific 8-digit code.
What falls outside HS 290372?
The following products are excluded from HS 290372: other halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons that are not dichlorotrifluoroethanes. For instance, other hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) like HCFC-22 (chlorodifluoromethane) would be classified under 2903.71, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) such as HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane) fall under 2903.45. Similarly, fully halogenated chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) like CFC-11 (trichlorofluoromethane) are classified under 2903.73. Products containing bromine, such as bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211), are classified under 2903.79, as they contain a different halogen not specified for 2903.72.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290372?
A common error is misidentifying the specific isomer or chemical composition, leading to incorrect classification within the broader 2903.7 group for other HCFCs. Importers sometimes confuse HCFC-123 with other similar refrigerants or fire suppressants that have different chemical formulas or are mixtures. For example, a mixture containing HCFC-123 but also other substances might be classified under a different heading, potentially 3824 if it's a prepared mixture not elsewhere specified. 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, ensuring the product precisely matches the chemical definition of dichlorotrifluoroethanes.
How should importers classify products under HS 290372?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290372 involves a precise chemical analysis and verification of the product's identity as dichlorotrifluoroethane (HCFC-123). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name, CAS number (e.g., 306-83-2 for HCFC-123), and purity. This documentation is essential to confirm that the product is indeed 2,2-dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane and not another halogenated derivative. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and specific national tariff guidance, such as the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC, will further ensure accurate classification and compliance with all relevant customs regulations and duty rates, which for the US is 3.5% ad valorem for this subheading.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) under HS 2903.72?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) under HS 2903.72 typically range. For example, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a general duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the current rate with the specific country's customs authority or official tariff database (e.g., USITC Tariff Database, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2903.72, Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123), under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are available for HS 2903.72 under various trade agreements, often resulting in duty-free entry. For instance, in the United States, imports from countries party to agreements such as the Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (BH), Chile Free Trade Agreement (CL), Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (CO), Israel Free Trade Agreement (IL), Jordan Free Trade Agreement (JO), Korea 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) are eligible for duty-free treatment (indicated by 'Free' or 'A' in the tariff schedule). Importers must ensure proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is provided to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) under HS 2903.72?
The classification of Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) under HS 2903.72 is primarily based on its chemical structure as an acyclic chlorinated, fluorinated, or brominated derivative of hydrocarbons. Specifically, 2903.72 covers 'Dichlorotrifluoroethanes,' which refers to isomers of C2HCL2F3. This sub-heading is distinct from other halogenated derivatives based on the specific number and type of halogen atoms (chlorine and fluorine) and the carbon backbone (ethane). Importers should ensure the chemical name, CAS number (e.g., 2837-89-0 for 1,1-dichloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethane, HCFC-123), and chemical formula precisely match the description for accurate classification according to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes.
What specific documentation is required for importing Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) under HS 2903.72, considering its environmental controls?
Given that Dichlorotrifluoroethanes (HCFC-123) are Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), their import is subject to international environmental controls, notably under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Consequently, in addition to standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importers will likely require specific permits or licenses from environmental protection agencies. For example, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the import of HCFCs, requiring allowances and compliance with specific reporting and labeling requirements. Similar regulations exist in the EU and UK. Importers should consult their national environmental authorities and customs agencies well in advance of shipment to ensure all necessary permits and declarations are secured.