HS 290539 Other
Quick Answer: HS 290539, "Other," covers acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives not specifically enumerated in other subheadings of 2905. This includes a diverse range of organic chemical compounds, often used as intermediates in chemical synthesis, solvents, or in the production of pharmaceuticals and plastics. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK Trade Tariff shows rates such as 0.00% and 4.00% ad valorem, while the EU TARIC lists 0.00% and 5.50% ad valorem. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) generally applies a 5.5% ad valorem rate, with many products eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). A specific US subheading for certain polyhydric alcohols carries a 51% ad valorem rate. Precise classification is crucial due to the broad nature of "Other" and the significant duty rate differentials.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905392000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2905392800 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2905399500 | — | — | — |
| 2905399525 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2905399535 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905399500 | — | — | — |
| 2905390000 | — | — | — |
| 2905392000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2905392600 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2905392800 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905391000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2905392000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 290539 | — | — | — |
| 2905399000 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2905396000 | Free | — | ["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 2905.39?
Imports of Other 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 290539 cover?
This subheading covers acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives, specifically those that are diols, triols, and other polyhydric alcohols not elsewhere specified within subheading 2905.31 (Ethylene glycol (ethanediol)) or 2905.32 (Propylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol)). According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC, this includes a diverse range of polyols such as butanediols (e.g., 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol), pentanediols, hexanediols, and glycerol derivatives not falling under 2905.45, provided they are chemically defined and acyclic. It serves as a residual category for "other" polyhydric acyclic alcohols.
What falls outside HS 290539?
The following products are excluded from HS 290539: Ethylene glycol (ethanediol) is specifically classified under 2905.31. Propylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol) is classified under 2905.32. Glycerol, a prominent triol, is classified under 2905.45. Furthermore, cyclic alcohols, such as cyclohexanol, are excluded and fall under heading 2906. Polyether polyols, even if derived from acyclic alcohols, are generally classified under heading 3907 if they are polymers. Similarly, mixtures of acyclic alcohols, unless specifically provided for, might be classified under other headings depending on their composition and primary function, especially if they are not chemically defined pure substances.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290539?
A common error is misclassifying specific polyhydric acyclic alcohols that have their own dedicated subheadings, such as ethylene glycol (2905.31) or propylene glycol (2905.32), into 2905.39. Another frequent mistake involves classifying glycerol (2905.45) here, despite its distinct provision. Importers sometimes incorrectly classify complex mixtures or polymeric polyols, which are more appropriately classified in Chapter 39, under this subheading, failing to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures or GRI 1 for chemically defined pure substances. Additionally, confusion can arise with cyclic alcohols, which belong to heading 2906, leading to incorrect classification if the "acyclic" criterion is overlooked.
How should importers classify products under HS 290539?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290539 involves a systematic review of the product's chemical structure and identity. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is an acyclic alcohol and specifically a polyhydric alcohol (diol, triol, etc.). Next, it is crucial to verify that the product is not specifically enumerated in other subheadings under 2905, particularly 2905.31 (Ethylene glycol), 2905.32 (Propylene glycol), or 2905.45 (Glycerol). Chemical analysis reports, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and Certificates of Analysis (CoA) are essential documentation to confirm the chemical name, purity, and structural characteristics. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2905 and relevant national tariff interpretations (e.g., USITC HTS General Notes, EU TARIC guidance) is vital to ensure accurate classification as "other" acyclic polyhydric alcohols.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for products classified under HS 2905.39 in key markets, and are there any significant preferential rates available?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2905.39 'Other' acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the MFN duty rate in the United States is 5.5% ad valorem (USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, Chapter 29, Subheading 2905.39.90.00). In the European Union, the MFN duty rate is 5.5% ad valorem (EU TARIC, Heading 2905 39 90 00). The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN rate for this subheading (UK Trade Tariff, CN 2905 39 90). However, many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free access. For example, under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) such as 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), products meeting the rules of origin may enter the US duty-free. Importers should consult the specific country's tariff schedule and the rules of origin for applicable trade agreements to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.
What are the primary classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2905.39 'Other' from other subheadings within 2905?
HS 2905.39 'Other' serves as a residual subheading for acyclic alcohols and their derivatives that are not specifically enumerated in other more specific subheadings of heading 2905. The primary classification criteria involve a systematic review of the chemical structure: first, confirming it is an acyclic alcohol or one of its specified derivatives (halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated). Second, verifying that it is not covered by more specific subheadings such as 2905.11 (methanol), 2905.12 (propan-1-ol (propyl alcohol) and propan-2-ol (isopropyl alcohol)), 2905.13 (butan-1-ol (n-butyl alcohol)), 2905.14 (other butanols), 2905.16 (octanol (octyl alcohol) and their isomers), 2905.17 (dodecan-1-ol (lauryl alcohol), hexadecan-1-ol (cetyl alcohol) and octadecan-1-ol (stearyl alcohol)), 2905.19 (other saturated monohydric alcohols), 2905.22 (acyclic terpene alcohols), 2905.29 (other unsaturated monohydric alcohols), 2905.31 (ethylene glycol (ethanediol)), 2905.32 (propylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol)), or 2905.39 (other diols). Products falling under 2905.39 typically include various other acyclic diols, triols, or polyhydric alcohols not elsewhere specified. Importers should have detailed chemical specifications, including CAS numbers and chemical names, to ensure correct classification based on the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29.
What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the importation of chemicals classified under HS 2905.39?
For chemicals classified under HS 2905.39, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, customs authorities often require a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to verify the chemical identity, purity, and composition, especially for 'other' categories where specific chemical names are not explicitly listed in the tariff. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, or a self-certification by the exporter) is mandatory to substantiate the product's originating status. Depending on the specific chemical and its end-use, additional regulatory documentation might be required, such as permits from environmental agencies (e.g., EPA in the US) or health authorities, though this is less common for general acyclic alcohols unless they are precursors or subject to specific controls.
Can products under HS 2905.39 be subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties, and how can importers verify this?
Yes, products classified under HS 2905.39, like any other imported goods, can be subject to anti-dumping (AD) or countervailing duties (CVD) if investigations by importing countries determine that specific products are being dumped or unfairly subsidized by exporting countries, causing material injury to domestic industries. While there are no widespread AD/CVD measures currently in effect specifically targeting all products under the broad 'Other' category of 2905.39 across all origins, specific chemical compounds within this subheading could be targeted. Importers and customs brokers must regularly check the official trade remedy databases of the importing country. For the United States, this would be the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) websites. For the EU, the European Commission's DG Trade website provides information on AD/CVD measures. For the UK, the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) website should be consulted. These resources provide up-to-date information on active AD/CVD orders, including product scope, affected countries, and applicable duty rates, which can be substantial (e.g., the '51%' rate mentioned in the prompt could be indicative of an AD/CVD duty).