HS 290392 Hexachlorobenzene (ISO) and DDT (ISO) (clofenotane (INN), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane)

Quick Answer: HS code 290392 specifically covers hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), both persistent organic pollutants. HCB is an organochlorine compound used as a fungicide, while DDT is a well-known insecticide. Due to their environmental and health impacts, the production, use, and trade of these chemicals are highly restricted or banned globally under international agreements like the Stockholm Convention. For importers and exporters, understanding these restrictions is paramount. While the UK and EU tariffs show a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate across all subheadings, indicating no standard customs duty, the US applies a 5.5% ad valorem rate under the general column, with various preferential programs offering duty-free entry (e.g., A+, AU, CL). However, a prohibitive 15.4¢/kg + 71% ad valorem rate applies to non-MFN countries. The primary consideration for trade in these substances is regulatory compliance and licensing, not just duty rates.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2903920000 0.00 % — —
2903920090 0.00 % — —
2903920010 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2903920010 0.00 % — —
2903920000 0.00 % — —
2903920090 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2903920000 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 2903.92?

Imports of Hexachlorobenzene (ISO) and DDT (ISO) (clofenotane (INN), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane) 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, and 16 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 290392 cover?

This subheading covers hexachlorobenzene (ISO) and DDT (ISO), which is also known as clofenotane (INN) or 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane. These are specific halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons, falling under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System, which deals with organic chemicals. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature and explanatory notes explicitly define these compounds by their chemical structures and common names, ensuring precise identification. Importers should verify the exact chemical name and CAS number against the official descriptions provided by the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system to confirm inclusion.

What falls outside HS 290392?

The following products are excluded from HS 290392: other halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons that are not specifically hexachlorobenzene or DDT. For instance, other chlorinated benzenes like monochlorobenzene (HS 2903.99) or trichlorobenzenes (HS 2903.99) are classified elsewhere, as are other chlorinated ethanes not matching the specific DDT structure. Similarly, mixtures containing these substances where the character-imparting component is not hexachlorobenzene or DDT, or where they are incorporated into preparations, would be classified according to the rules for mixtures or preparations, often in other chapters or subheadings within Chapter 29 or Chapter 38.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 290392?

A common error is misclassifying other chlorinated organic compounds as hexachlorobenzene or DDT simply because they are also halogenated or have similar applications. Importers might incorrectly apply this subheading to related but distinct chemicals, such as other chlorinated pesticides or industrial intermediates, without verifying the precise chemical structure. This often stems from a failure to strictly apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which mandates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Accurate classification requires a detailed chemical analysis and comparison against the specific chemical nomenclature provided in the HS.

How should importers classify products under HS 290392?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290392 involves a rigorous verification of the chemical identity. Importers and customs brokers must obtain the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product, confirming the exact chemical name, CAS number, and molecular structure. This information should then be cross-referenced with the official text of subheading 2903.92 in the HTSUS or TARIC database. If there's any ambiguity, seeking a binding ruling from the respective customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 290382 HS 290393 HS 290394 HS 290383 HS 290391 HS 290323

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Hexachlorobenzene and DDT under HS code 2903.92 in the United States?

For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for products classified under HTSUS subheading 2903.92.00.00, which covers Hexachlorobenzene (ISO) and DDT (ISO), is generally 5.5% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries without specific trade agreements or preferential programs with the U.S. Importers should always verify the current rates on the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) Tariff Database (HTS Search) for the most up-to-date information.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for Hexachlorobenzene and DDT (HS 2903.92) under U.S. trade agreements?

Yes, preferential duty rates are available for HS 2903.92 under various U.S. trade agreements and programs. For example, goods originating from countries eligible for programs such as the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), or trade agreements like those 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) may be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin. Consult the USITC HTS and relevant trade agreement texts for specific requirements.

What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2903.92?

HS 2903.92 specifically covers 'Hexachlorobenzene (ISO) and DDT (ISO) (clofenotane (INN), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. Importers must ensure that the product is precisely Hexachlorobenzene or DDT, including its specified isomers and chemical synonyms. This heading is very specific and does not include other halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Laboratory analysis, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and Certificates of Analysis (CoA) are crucial documents to confirm the chemical composition and ensure accurate classification under this subheading, adhering to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) of the Harmonized System.

What specific documentation is required for importing Hexachlorobenzene or DDT under HS 2903.92, considering their hazardous nature?

Given that Hexachlorobenzene and DDT are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and subject to international conventions like the Stockholm Convention, importing these substances under HS 2903.92 requires stringent documentation beyond standard customs declarations. Importers must typically provide:

  1. Commercial Invoice and Packing List: Standard customs documents.
  2. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: Proof of carriage.
  3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Essential for hazardous materials, detailing chemical properties, hazards, and safe handling.
  4. Certificate of Analysis (CoA): Confirms the chemical composition and purity.
  5. Import Permits/Licenses: Many countries, including the U.S. (e.g., EPA regulations), require specific permits for the import of POPs and restricted chemicals. Importers must check with relevant environmental agencies in the importing country.
  6. Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Documentation: Under the Rotterdam Convention, some countries require PIC procedures for certain hazardous chemicals, including DDT. Importers should verify if their specific transaction falls under these requirements. Failure to provide complete and accurate documentation can lead to significant delays, penalties, or seizure of goods.