HS 290391 Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons
Quick Answer: HS code 290391 covers halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons, which are organic chemical compounds where one or more hydrogen atoms on an aromatic ring (like benzene) have been replaced by a halogen atom (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine). These chemicals are crucial intermediates in the production of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes, and other specialty chemicals. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. In the US, the general rate is 5.5% ad valorem, but significant preferential duty treatment (Free) is available under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, IL, KR, MA, OM, PA, PE, SG). Some specific subheadings within 290391 may also carry a compound duty rate, such as 15.4¢/kg + 91.5% for certain products. Careful classification and origin determination are essential to leverage these preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903910000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903910000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2903911000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 290391 | — | — | — |
| 2903912000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2903913000 | 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 2903.91?
Imports of Halogenated derivatives of aromatic 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290391 cover?
This subheading covers halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons, specifically chlorobenzene, o-dichlorobenzene, and p-dichlorobenzene. These are organic chemical compounds where one or more hydrogen atoms on an aromatic ring (like benzene) have been replaced by a halogen atom, such as chlorine. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, along with official interpretations from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, precisely defines these specific isomers, ensuring consistent global classification for these foundational chemical intermediates used in various industrial applications, including solvents, pesticides, and dye production.
What falls outside HS 290391?
The following products are excluded from HS 290391: other halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons that are not specifically chlorobenzene, o-dichlorobenzene, or p-dichlorobenzene. For instance, bromobenzene (a halogenated derivative of an aromatic hydrocarbon) would fall under HS 290399, as it is not one of the specifically enumerated compounds in 290391. Similarly, fluorobenzene or iodobenzene, while also halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, are not covered here. Products that are mixtures of these specific chemicals with other substances, where the mixture's essential character is not solely derived from the 290391 compounds, may also be classified elsewhere, potentially under Chapter 38 if they are preparations.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290391?
A common error is misclassifying other halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons into HS 290391, which is strictly limited to chlorobenzene, o-dichlorobenzene, and p-dichlorobenzene. Importers sometimes overlook the specificity of the subheading and attempt to classify any chlorinated benzene derivative here, such as 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, which correctly belongs in HS 290399. This mistake often stems from insufficient attention to the precise chemical name and structure, violating 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. Accurate chemical identification is paramount to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 290391?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290391 involves a multi-step verification process. First, importers or customs brokers must confirm the exact chemical identity of the product, ensuring it is precisely chlorobenzene, o-dichlorobenzene, or p-dichlorobenzene, typically through a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Second, cross-reference the chemical name and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number with the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 and the specific subheading 290391, as well as the official USITC HTSUS and EU TARIC nomenclature. Any deviation from these specific chemicals necessitates classification under a more appropriate subheading, such as 290399 for other halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, following GRI 1 and 6.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2903.91, 'Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons'?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2903.91 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, in the United States, the general MFN duty rate is 5.5% ad valorem, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). In other jurisdictions, rates may differ, such as 4.00% or 5.50% ad valorem. It is crucial for importers to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff, for the precise and current MFN rate applicable at the time of import.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry for goods under HS 2903.91 into the United States?
For imports into the United States, goods classified under HS 2903.91 may be eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or preferential programs, provided they meet the respective rules of origin. Countries such as Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic (D) (under CAFTA-DR), El Salvador (E) (under CAFTA-DR), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) are examples of countries whose originating goods may enter duty-free. Importers should verify eligibility by checking the 'Special' column in the HTSUS for the specific program indicator and ensuring all origin requirements are met, including providing a valid certificate of origin or declaration.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons' under HS 2903.91?
Classification under HS 2903.91 requires the product to be an organic chemical compound that is a derivative of an aromatic hydrocarbon where one or more hydrogen atoms have been replaced by halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine). This heading specifically covers 'other' halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons, meaning those not more specifically provided for in subheadings 2903.92 through 2903.99. Key criteria include the presence of an aromatic ring structure and the halogenation of that structure. Importers should have detailed chemical descriptions, structural formulas, and manufacturing process information to ensure accurate classification, referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 for guidance.
Are there any specific documentation requirements, beyond standard customs declarations, for importing products under HS 2903.91?
Beyond the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of products under HS 2903.91 may need additional documentation depending on the specific chemical and its end-use. For preferential duty treatment, a Certificate of Origin or a valid origin declaration is mandatory. Furthermore, certain halogenated organic compounds may be subject to control under environmental regulations (e.g., Montreal Protocol substances, POPs under Stockholm Convention) or chemical weapons conventions, requiring specific permits, declarations, or notifications from agencies like the EPA in the U.S. or REACH regulations in the EU. Importers should verify with relevant regulatory bodies whether their specific chemical falls under such controls.