HS 290522 Unsaturated monohydric alcohols
Quick Answer: HS code 290522 covers unsaturated monohydric alcohols, which are organic chemical compounds containing one hydroxyl group and at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond. A common example is allyl alcohol. These chemicals are crucial intermediates in the production of plastics, resins, pharmaceuticals, and fragrances. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates. In the UK, the standard Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem, with some lines at 0.00%. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem, also with some 0.00% lines. The US MFN rate is 3% ad valorem, though many products qualify for duty-free entry under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). A notable exception is a 45% rate for certain specific products within this heading. Accurate classification is vital to leverage preferential trade agreements and avoid penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905220000 | — | — | — |
| 2905220030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2905220010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2905220090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905220000 | — | — | — |
| 2905220010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2905220030 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2905220090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 290522 | — | — | — |
| 2905225050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2905221000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2905222000 | 3.7% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 29052250 | 4.8% | Free (18 programs) | — |
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 2905.22?
Imports of Unsaturated monohydric alcohols 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 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290522 cover?
This subheading covers unsaturated monohydric alcohols, specifically those with an acyclic structure. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC, this includes compounds such as allyl alcohol (prop-2-en-1-ol). These are organic chemical compounds characterized by having one hydroxyl (-OH) group and at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond within an open-chain (acyclic) hydrocarbon structure. The scope is strictly limited to monohydric (one -OH group) and acyclic unsaturated alcohols, distinguishing them from polyhydric or cyclic counterparts.
What falls outside HS 290522?
The following products are excluded from HS 290522: unsaturated polyhydric alcohols, which would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2905, such as 2905.49 for other unsaturated polyhydric alcohols. For instance, but-2-ene-1,4-diol, having two hydroxyl groups, is excluded. Additionally, cyclic unsaturated alcohols, such as cyclohexenol, are excluded and typically fall under Heading 2906 (Cyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives). Ethers, esters, or other derivatives of these alcohols are also excluded, as they are classified according to their specific functional groups elsewhere in Chapter 29 or other chapters.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290522?
A common error is misclassifying polyhydric or cyclic unsaturated alcohols under HS 290522, failing to adhere to the "monohydric" and "acyclic" criteria explicitly stated in the subheading text. Importers sometimes overlook the precise chemical structure, leading to incorrect classification of, for example, but-2-ene-1,4-diol (a diol) or cyclohexenol (a cyclic alcohol) into this subheading. This often stems from an insufficient understanding of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which mandates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Careful examination of the chemical name and structure is paramount to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 290522?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290522 involves a meticulous review of the chemical's structure and functional groups. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the alcohol is both monohydric (possesses only one -OH group) and acyclic (has an open-chain structure). Next, verify the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond, confirming its unsaturated nature. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2905 and cross-referencing with the specific chemical's CAS number against official tariff databases like the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC can provide definitive guidance and ensure compliance with GRI 1 and 6, leading to accurate classification and avoiding potential penalties or delays.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2905.22 (Unsaturated monohydric alcohols)?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2905.22, 'Unsaturated monohydric alcohols,' vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem rate. Some countries may apply higher rates, such as 45% in specific markets, while others, like Australia, may offer 0.0% MFN rates. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC, for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free or reduced rates for unsaturated monohydric alcohols (HS 2905.22)?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free or reduced rates for goods classified under HS 2905.22, 'Unsaturated monohydric alcohols,' when originating from partner countries. For example, under the United States' Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or free trade agreements like USMCA (with Canada and Mexico), CAFTA-DR, and agreements with 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), duty-free entry (0.0% ad valorem) is often available, provided the goods meet the specific rules of origin. Importers should verify the origin of their product and consult the specific trade agreement's provisions and the importing country's tariff schedule to claim preferential treatment, typically requiring a certificate of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2905.22 ('Unsaturated monohydric alcohols') from other alcohol subheadings?
The primary classification criteria for HS 2905.22, 'Unsaturated monohydric alcohols,' revolve around the chemical structure of the alcohol. Specifically, the alcohol must be: 1) 'Monohydric,' meaning it contains only one hydroxyl (-OH) group. 2) 'Unsaturated,' indicating the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond within its molecular structure. This distinguishes it from saturated monohydric alcohols (e.g., HS 2905.1) and polyhydric alcohols (e.g., HS 2905.3 or 2905.4). Examples include allyl alcohol (prop-2-en-1-ol) or propargyl alcohol (prop-2-yn-1-ol). Accurate classification requires a detailed understanding of the chemical composition and structure, often necessitating a chemical analysis report or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for verification.
What specific documentation is typically required for the importation of unsaturated monohydric alcohols (HS 2905.22)?
For the importation of unsaturated monohydric alcohols (HS 2905.22), standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the chemical nature of these products, importers should be prepared to provide: 1) A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with chemical regulations. 2) A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the purity, concentration, and specific chemical identity, which aids in accurate classification and regulatory compliance. 3) If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, or self-certification) is mandatory. Depending on the country, permits or licenses from environmental or chemical regulatory bodies may also be necessary.