HS 290378 Other perhalogenated derivatives
Quick Answer: HS Code 2903.78 covers "Other perhalogenated derivatives," which are organic chemical compounds where all hydrogen atoms have been replaced by halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine), excluding those specifically classified elsewhere. These are typically synthetic organic chemicals used as intermediates in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, refrigerants, or specialized solvents. For importers, duty rates vary significantly. The UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty. In contrast, the United States imposes a 3.7% ad valorem duty for Most Favored Nation (MFN) countries, with preferential duty-free access available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for eligible countries (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). A punitive 25% duty may apply under specific trade measures. Importers should verify product eligibility for preferential treatment and be aware of potential end-use restrictions or licensing requirements for certain perhalogenated compounds.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903780000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903780000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903780000 | 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 2903.78?
Imports of Other perhalogenated derivatives 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290378 cover?
This subheading covers perhalogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, specifically those not elsewhere specified within subheading 2903.7. Perhalogenated means that all hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon molecule have been replaced by halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine). This includes compounds like perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and perchlorocarbons, provided they are not specifically enumerated in other subheadings under 2903.7, such as 2903.71 (Chlorodifluoromethane), 2903.72 (Dichlorotrifluoroethanes), or 2903.75 (Trifluoromethane). The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC provide the foundational definitions for these complex organic chemicals, emphasizing the complete halogenation and acyclic structure.
What falls outside HS 290378?
The following products are excluded from HS 290378: specific perhalogenated derivatives explicitly covered by other subheadings within 2903.7, such as 2903.71 (Chlorodifluoromethane), 2903.72 (Dichlorotrifluoroethanes), 2903.73 (Trichlorotrifluoroethanes), 2903.74 (Dichloropentafluoroethanes), 2903.75 (Trifluoromethane), 2903.76 (Bromochlorodifluoromethane, bromotrifluoromethane and dibromotetrafluoroethanes), and 2903.77 (Other perhalogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens only). Additionally, cyclic perhalogenated hydrocarbons, such as perfluorocyclobutane, would be excluded as this subheading is strictly for acyclic derivatives. Polymers of perhalogenated hydrocarbons, like polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are also excluded and are classified in Chapter 39, as they are no longer simple organic chemicals.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290378?
A common error is misclassifying specific perhalogenated derivatives that have their own dedicated subheadings within 2903.7 into 2903.78. For instance, classifying trifluoromethane (HFC-23), which belongs in 2903.75, or bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211), which belongs in 2903.76, under 2903.78. This often occurs due to a failure to meticulously review all available 6-digit and 8-digit subheadings before resorting to the "other" category. Another mistake is classifying perhalogenated compounds containing hydrogen atoms, which are not truly "perhalogenated," or misclassifying cyclic perhalogenated compounds. 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 these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 290378?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290378 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is an acyclic hydrocarbon and that all hydrogen atoms have been replaced by halogen atoms, making it truly "perhalogenated." Next, they must meticulously review all specific subheadings from 2903.71 through 2903.77 to ensure the product is not explicitly described elsewhere. Only if the product is a perhalogenated acyclic derivative and does not fit into any of those more specific categories should 2903.78 be considered. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, and the EU TARIC for precise chemical definitions and examples is essential. When in doubt, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority can prevent costly classification errors and ensure compliance.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 2903.78 in the United States, and how do preferential rates apply?
For imports into the United States under Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheading 2903.78, the Column 1 'General' (MFN) duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem. However, many countries are eligible for preferential duty treatment, resulting in a 'Free' rate. This includes countries under agreements such as the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) if applicable to this subheading, and various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like 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 should verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to claim the 'Free' rate, which typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin or similar documentation.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Other perhalogenated derivatives' under HS 2903.78, and what does 'perhalogenated' mean?
HS 2903.78 covers 'Other perhalogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons.' The term 'perhalogenated' is crucial for classification here. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, a compound is 'perhalogenated' when all the hydrogen atoms of the parent hydrocarbon have been replaced by halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine). This subheading specifically excludes cyclic compounds and derivatives that are not fully halogenated. Importers must ensure that the chemical structure of their product meets this 'perhalogenated' definition and is an acyclic hydrocarbon derivative to be correctly classified under 2903.78. For example, perfluorocarbons (PFCs) that are acyclic would typically fall here.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing chemicals classified under HS 2903.78?
Yes, beyond standard import documentation such as commercial invoices and packing lists, importers of chemicals under HS 2903.78 may face additional requirements. In the United States, chemicals are subject to regulations by agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Importers may need to provide TSCA certification indicating whether the chemical substance is subject to TSCA and whether it complies with all applicable rules and orders. For preferential duty claims (e.g., 'Free' rates under FTAs), a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, KORUS FTA Certificate) is mandatory. Importers should also be aware of any potential anti-dumping or countervailing duties (AD/CVD) that could apply to specific products from certain countries, although none are broadly listed for this general subheading at this time.
How do EU TARIC and UK Trade Tariff duty rates compare for HS 2903.78, and what are common preferential schemes?
For HS 2903.78, the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) duty rate in the European Union (EU) via TARIC is typically 0.00% ad valorem for MFN imports. Similarly, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for MFN imports under this code. Both the EU and the UK offer extensive preferential tariff arrangements. For the EU, this includes agreements with countries under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP), various FTAs (e.g., with Korea, Japan, Canada), and other preferential regimes, often resulting in a 0.00% rate. The UK also maintains its own network of FTAs and preferential schemes (e.g., with Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and developing countries under its GSP), which would also typically grant a 0.00% duty rate for eligible goods. Importers must ensure compliance with Rules of Origin to claim these preferential rates.