HS 290376 Bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301) and dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402)
Quick Answer: HS code 2903.76 covers specific halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, commonly known as Halons. This includes Bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), Bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301), and Dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402). These substances are potent ozone-depleting chemicals primarily used in fire suppression systems. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the duty rates is crucial: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. The US imposes a 3.7% ad valorem duty, with significant preferential duty-free treatment available under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, KR). A 25% rate applies to certain non-market economy countries. Beyond tariffs, trade in these Halons is heavily restricted globally under the Montreal Protocol due to their environmental impact, requiring specific licenses and quotas for import/export. Importers must verify compliance with national environmental regulations in addition to customs duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903761000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903769000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2903760000 | — | — | — |
| 2903762000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903760000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903761000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903762000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2903769000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903760100 | 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 2903.76?
Imports of Bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301) and dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402) 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 290376 cover?
This subheading covers specific halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, precisely defined as bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301), and dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402). These are all fully halogenated chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or bromofluorocarbons (BFCs) known for their fire suppression properties, though their production and use are largely restricted under international environmental protocols. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 explicitly list these compounds, and official tariff schedules such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this precise chemical scope, ensuring consistent global classification for these controlled substances.
What falls outside HS 290376?
The following products are excluded from HS 290376: other halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons that are not specifically bromochlorodifluoromethane, bromotrifluoromethane, or dibromotetrafluoroethanes. For instance, other chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) not matching these exact chemical formulas, such as dichlorodifluoromethane (CFC-12) or chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22), would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2903, typically 2903.71 through 2903.79, depending on their specific chemical structure and halogenation. Similarly, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) like 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) are classified under 2903.45, as they lack bromine or chlorine atoms in the specific configurations required for 2903.76.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290376?
A common error is misclassifying other halogenated hydrocarbons, particularly other halons or similar fire suppressants, under HS 290376 without verifying their exact chemical composition. Importers might incorrectly assume that any "halon" product belongs here, overlooking the specific chemical names and formulas (Halon-1211, Halon-1301, Halon-2402) explicitly stated in the subheading. This violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which mandates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Failure to precisely match the chemical name and structure can lead to incorrect duty rates, regulatory non-compliance, and potential penalties, especially given the controlled nature of these substances under environmental treaties.
How should importers classify products under HS 290376?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290376 involves a rigorous verification of the chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the precise chemical name and CAS number. They should then cross-reference this information with the exact chemical names specified in HS 290376: bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301), or dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402). If the product matches one of these three, it falls under 290376. Additionally, importers must ensure compliance with all applicable environmental regulations, such as the Montreal Protocol, which govern the import and use of these ozone-depleting substances, often requiring specific permits or licenses.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2903.76 in key markets, and are there any significant variations?
The standard MFN import duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.76 (Bromochlorodifluoromethane, Bromotrifluoromethane, and Dibromotetrafluoroethanes) can 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 MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable in the destination country via official customs tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff, as rates are subject to change and specific country footnotes.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for HS 2903.76, and how can importers claim these benefits?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for goods classified under HS 2903.76, potentially reducing the duty rate to 'Free' or a significantly lower percentage. For example, the United States grants duty-free access under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to goods originating 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). To claim preferential duty rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin criteria of the specific agreement and obtain the necessary documentation, typically a Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration, from the exporter. Customs brokers play a crucial role in verifying eligibility and correctly declaring the preferential treatment at the time of import.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2903.76 from other halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2903.76 is the specific chemical composition of the halogenated derivatives: Bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon-1211), Bromotrifluoromethane (Halon-1301), and Dibromotetrafluoroethanes (Halon-2402). These are distinct perhalogenated acyclic hydrocarbons containing both bromine and fluorine. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the chemical name, CAS number, and molecular structure precisely match one of these three compounds. Misclassification can occur if similar but chemically distinct halogenated hydrocarbons, such as those containing only fluorine (e.g., under 2903.4X) or other halogens, are incorrectly grouped. Laboratory analysis or manufacturer's specifications detailing the exact chemical composition are essential for accurate classification, referencing Chapter 29 Notes and WCO Explanatory Notes for guidance.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or import restrictions related to HS 2903.76 due to environmental regulations, such as the Montreal Protocol?
Yes, products classified under HS 2903.76, specifically Halon-1211, Halon-1301, and Halon-2402, are potent ozone-depleting substances (ODS) controlled under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Consequently, their production, consumption, import, and export are heavily restricted or phased out globally. Importers must be aware that in many countries, new production and import of these substances are banned, with exceptions typically limited to essential uses, recycling, or destruction. Specific documentation, such as import licenses, permits from environmental protection agencies (e.g., EPA in the US), or declarations confirming the intended use (e.g., for destruction or specific exempted applications), are often required. Importers must consult the environmental regulations of both the exporting and importing countries to ensure compliance and avoid severe penalties.