HS 290491 Other

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2904.91 ('Other' derivatives of hydrocarbons containing only sulfo groups, their salts and ethyl esters) can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database often shows an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists an MFN duty rate of 5.50%. However, some countries, such as Canada, may apply a 0.00% MFN duty rate. It is crucial for importers to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff, for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Yes, preferential duty rates are frequently available for products classified under HS 2904.91, often resulting in a 0.00% or 'Free' rate, depending on the country of origin and the applicable trade agreement. In the United States, for example, a 'Free' duty rate (0.00%) is often granted under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for goods originating from countries such as 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). Similar preferential rates may apply under agreements like the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific FTAs. Importers should verify the origin of their goods and ensure compliance with the Rules of Origin criteria of the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment. Proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is essential.

HS 2904.91 covers 'Other' derivatives of hydrocarbons containing only sulfo groups, their salts and ethyl esters. The primary classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure: the substance must be a derivative of a hydrocarbon, and the only oxygen-functional groups present must be sulfo groups (-SO3H), or their corresponding salts or ethyl esters. This subheading is a residual category within 2904, meaning it captures compounds that do not fall into the more specific subheadings like 2904.10 (containing only nitro or nitrosyl groups) or 2904.20 (containing only halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons). Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the chemical composition precisely matches this description, often requiring a detailed chemical analysis report or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the absence of other functional groups that would lead to classification elsewhere in Chapter 29 or other chapters.

For the importation of goods under HS 2904.91, standard customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For chemical products, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often required by customs authorities to verify the chemical composition and ensure compliance with safety regulations. When claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential scheme, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., a USMCA Certificate of Origin for trade with North America, or a EUR.1 certificate for certain EU agreements) is mandatory. This certificate attests that the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin requirements of the agreement. Failure to provide accurate and complete documentation can result in delays, penalties, or the denial of preferential duty treatment, leading to the application of the higher MFN duty rate.

While HS 2904.91 itself does not inherently trigger widespread import restrictions beyond standard chemical regulations, importers must be aware of potential controls. As a chemical product, it may be subject to regulations concerning hazardous materials, environmental protection, or specific chemical inventories. For example, in the United States, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) may require pre-manufacture notices or import certifications depending on whether the substance is new or existing on the TSCA inventory. In the EU, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations might apply, requiring registration or specific data submissions. Importers should consult the relevant national chemical regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU) to ensure full compliance with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations for the specific chemical being imported.