HS 290383 Mirex (ISO)
Quick Answer: HS code 290383 specifically covers Mirex (ISO), a synthetic organochlorine compound. While historically used as an insecticide, its production and use are now severely restricted or banned globally due to its persistent organic pollutant (POP) nature and toxicity, as recognized by the Stockholm Convention. For importers and customs brokers, this means transactions involving Mirex are subject to stringent import/export controls, licensing, and environmental regulations, often requiring prior informed consent (PIC) procedures. Typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates include 4.00% in the UK, 5.50% in the EU, and 5.5% in the US, though the US also offers duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). The high "Column 2" rate of 114.5% in the US underscores the prohibitive nature of trade with non-MFN countries. Due to its hazardous classification, trade in Mirex is highly scrutinized and generally prohibited unless for specific, authorized purposes like research or environmentally sound disposal.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903830000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903830000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903830000 | 5.5% | 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 2903.83?
Imports of Mirex (ISO) 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 290383 cover?
This subheading covers Mirex (ISO), which is a specific chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticide. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 29, Heading 2903 encompasses halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Subheading 2903.83.00 specifically identifies Mirex (ISO), a chemical compound with the systematic name dodecachloropentacyclo[5.3.0.02,6.03,9.04,8]decane. This classification is consistent across major tariff schedules, including the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring uniform global application for this particular chemical substance when imported or exported.
What falls outside HS 290383?
The following products are excluded from HS 290383: other halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, even if they possess insecticidal properties, which would typically fall under other subheadings within Heading 2903 or Chapter 38 if formulated as preparations. For instance, DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) is classified under 2903.82.00, and Aldrin (ISO) is found in 2903.89.10. Similarly, preparations containing Mirex, where Mirex is not the sole component and the preparation has a specific function (e.g., a formulated pesticide), would generally be classified under Chapter 38, specifically Heading 3808 for insecticides, depending on their composition and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290383?
A common error is misclassifying Mirex when it is part of a mixture or preparation, rather than in its pure chemical form. Importers might incorrectly apply HS 290383 to formulated pesticide products containing Mirex, whereas such preparations are typically classified under Heading 3808, "Insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, herbicides, anti-sprouting products and plant-growth regulators, disinfectants and similar products, put up in forms or packings for retail sale or as preparations or articles (for example, sulphur-treated bands, wicks and candles, and fly-papers)." This mistake violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), which prioritizes classification by essential character for mixtures, and GRI 6, which extends these principles to subheadings.
How should importers classify products under HS 290383?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290383 involves verifying that the imported substance is indeed pure Mirex (ISO) and not a mixture or preparation. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly identifying the chemical name as Mirex (ISO) and confirming its purity. If the product is a formulated insecticide containing Mirex, it must be classified under Heading 3808, considering its primary function and composition. Always refer to the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for any additional notes or rulings pertaining to Mirex or similar restricted chemicals, as regulatory controls often accompany such classifications.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is 'Mirex (ISO)' under HS code 2903.83 and why is its classification important?
Mirex (ISO) refers to dodecachloropentacyclo[5.3.0.02,6.03,9.04,8]decane, a highly chlorinated cyclodiene insecticide. It is classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2903.83. This classification is crucial because Mirex is listed under Annex A of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), meaning its production and use are generally prohibited globally. Correct classification ensures compliance with international environmental treaties and national import/export controls, preventing illegal trade and significant penalties. Importers and customs brokers must verify the substance's identity against chemical nomenclature and CAS numbers to confirm it precisely matches the description for 2903.83, which specifically covers 'Mirex (ISO)' among other halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons.
What are the typical import duty rates for HS 2903.83, and are there any preferential tariffs?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2903.83 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) generally lists an MFN rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also applies a 5.5% ad valorem rate. However, many trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment. For instance, imports into the U.S. from 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) may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate under respective Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), provided all rules of origin are met. Importers should consult the specific country's tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and ensure proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential rates.
Given that Mirex is a POP, what specific documentation and regulatory compliance are required for its import under HS 2903.83?
Due to Mirex's status as a Persistent Organic Pollutant (POP) under the Stockholm Convention, its import is subject to stringent controls, and in most jurisdictions, it is outright prohibited or severely restricted to specific exempted uses (e.g., laboratory-scale research or as a reference standard, if permitted). Importers must be prepared to provide extensive documentation, which typically includes: a detailed chemical analysis report (Certificate of Analysis), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), end-use declaration, and potentially an import permit or license from the relevant environmental protection agency (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU). Crucially, any import would likely require explicit authorization confirming it falls under an allowed exemption of the Stockholm Convention and national implementing regulations. Customs brokers must verify these permits are in place before shipment to avoid seizure, penalties, and potential criminal charges.
Are there any common misclassification issues or specific details to watch out for when classifying Mirex under HS 2903.83?
A common misclassification risk for HS 2903.83 involves confusing Mirex with other halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, especially those that might have similar chemical structures but are not specifically 'Mirex (ISO)'. The 'ISO' designation is critical, referring to the specific chemical identity recognized by the International Organization for Standardization. Importers must ensure the chemical name, CAS Registry Number (CAS No. 2385-85-5 for Mirex), and chemical structure precisely match the description for 2903.83. Any mixture containing Mirex would also typically fall under this subheading if Mirex is the predominant component or imparts the essential character. Furthermore, given its POP status, any attempt to import Mirex under a different, less controlled HS code would constitute a serious violation of customs and environmental laws. Customs brokers should always request a Certificate of Analysis for such sensitive chemicals to confirm the exact composition and identity.