HS 290381 Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons
Quick Answer: HS Code 2903.81 covers halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons. In simpler terms, this includes organic chemical compounds derived from cyclic hydrocarbons (like cyclohexane or cyclohexene) where one or more hydrogen atoms have been replaced by halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine). A prominent example is Lindane (gamma-HCH), though its use is highly restricted due to environmental concerns. Importers and exporters should note varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50%. The US MFN rate is 5.5%, but offers duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR, SG). For non-preferential trade, a column 2 rate of 15.4¢/kg + 64.5% applies. Due to the nature of these chemicals, compliance with chemical control regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) is crucial, alongside standard customs procedures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903810000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903810000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903810000 | 5.5% | 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 2903.81?
Imports of Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic 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 290381 cover?
This subheading covers halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons, specifically 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), including lindane (ISO). As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes from the World Customs Organization (WCO), this entry is dedicated to a specific chemical compound and its isomers, which are organic chemicals characterized by a cyclic structure and the presence of halogen atoms. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, classifying these specific halogenated cyclic hydrocarbons under 2903.81, emphasizing the precise chemical identity for accurate classification within Chapter 29.
What falls outside HS 290381?
The following products are excluded from HS 290381: other halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons that are not 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) or lindane. For instance, other halogenated cyclic compounds, such as hexachlorobenzene (HS 2903.99) or brominated cyclododecane, would be classified under different subheadings within Heading 2903 or even other headings in Chapter 29, depending on their specific chemical structure and functional groups. Products that are mixtures or preparations containing these chemicals, but not consisting solely of them, might also be excluded if the mixture's essential character is imparted by another component, potentially leading to classification elsewhere in Chapter 38, for example, if they are formulated as insecticides.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290381?
A common error is misclassifying other halogenated cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons under HS 290381 when they are not specifically 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) or lindane. Importers sometimes overlook the highly specific nature of this subheading, which is reserved for a single chemical compound and its isomers. This often occurs when a product is generally described as a "halogenated cyclic hydrocarbon" but does not precisely match the chemical structure of HCH or lindane. Such misclassification violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, as well as GRI 6, which extends this principle to subheadings, requiring precise identification of the chemical compound.
How should importers classify products under HS 290381?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290381 involves a meticulous review of the chemical's identity to confirm it is precisely 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) or lindane. Importers and customs brokers must obtain and scrutinize the product's chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula, typically found on a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Cross-referencing this information with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC system for Heading 2903 and subheading 2903.81 is crucial. If the chemical identity precisely matches HCH or lindane, then classification under 2903.81 is appropriate. If it is a different halogenated cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbon, further analysis under other subheadings of 2903 or even other chapters will be necessary.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2903.81 in key markets, and how do they apply?
The MFN duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.81, 'Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons,' vary by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 4.0% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 5.5% ad valorem rate. These MFN rates are applied to goods originating from countries that do not have a specific preferential trade agreement or are not subject to special trade programs with the importing country. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date MFN rate.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for goods under HS 2903.81, and what are the origin requirements?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free access for products classified under HS 2903.81, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin (ROO). For example, the United States offers duty-free treatment under agreements with 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). Similarly, the EU and UK have agreements that may grant duty-free access. To qualify for these preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods originate in the partner country according to the specific ROO of the agreement. This typically involves satisfying criteria such as a change in tariff classification, a regional value content requirement, or specific processing operations. Proper documentation, including a Certificate of Origin, is essential to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for determining if a product falls under HS 2903.81, as per WCO guidelines?
HS 2903.81 specifically covers 'Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons.' The primary classification criteria, based on the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes, are: 1. Chemical Structure: The product must be a derivative of a cyclanic (saturated cyclic), cyclenic (unsaturated cyclic), or cycloterpenic hydrocarbon. 2. Halogenation: It must contain at least one halogen atom (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine) directly attached to the hydrocarbon structure. 3. Exclusions: It's crucial to ensure the product is not more specifically described elsewhere in Chapter 29 (e.g., under oxygen- or nitrogen-functional derivatives if it also contains those functional groups and they impart the essential character). For instance, a halogenated derivative of cyclohexane would fall here, whereas a halogenated derivative of benzene would be in 2903.82. Importers should have detailed chemical specifications, including CAS numbers and structural formulas, to ensure accurate classification.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing chemicals under HS 2903.81, beyond standard customs declarations?
Yes, beyond standard customs declarations (e.g., commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importing chemicals under HS 2903.81 may involve additional documentation and regulatory compliance, depending on the specific chemical and destination country. Importers should be prepared to provide: 1. Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Essential for hazard communication and often required by customs and regulatory agencies (e.g., OSHA in the US, ECHA in the EU). 2. Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Numbers: Often requested for chemical identification. 3. Certificates of Analysis (CoA): Confirming purity and composition. 4. Compliance with Chemical Control Regulations: Depending on the substance, it might be subject to regulations like TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) in the US, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) in the EU, or similar national chemical inventories and controls. Some specific halogenated compounds may be restricted or require permits due to environmental or health concerns (e.g., certain ozone-depleting substances or persistent organic pollutants, though less common for this specific heading). Importers should verify all applicable national chemical regulations prior to shipment.