HS 290619 Other

The MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rate for HS 2906.19 'Other cyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives' can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database often shows a 0.00% MFN duty rate for many products within this subheading. The UK Global Tariff also frequently lists a 0.00% MFN duty rate. However, it is crucial to verify the specific sub-classification and country of origin. Preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0.00%), are available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for eligible goods originating from partner countries. For the US, this includes agreements 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), among others, typically indicated by special program indicators like 'A*', 'D', 'E', 'P', 'S'. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements and provide proper documentation (e.g., a certificate of origin) to claim these preferential rates.

HS 2906.19 is a residual 'Other' subheading within heading 2906, which covers 'Cyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' The primary classification criteria hinge on the chemical structure of the alcohol. Products fall under 2906.19 if they are cyclic alcohols (alcohols containing a ring structure, such as alicyclic or aromatic alcohols) or their specified derivatives (halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated) but are not specifically enumerated in other subheadings of 2906. For instance, menthol (2906.11), cyclohexanol, methylcyclohexanols and dimethylcyclohexanols (2906.12), sterols and inositols (2906.13), terpineols (2906.14), or other specific cyclic alcohols like benzyl alcohol (2906.21) or phenol and its salts (covered in 2907). Importers must provide a detailed chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula to customs authorities to ensure correct classification, as the 'Other' category requires confirmation that the substance does not fit a more specific description.

Yes, importing chemicals under HS 2906.19 often involves specific documentation and regulatory compliance beyond standard customs entry. Key requirements typically include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin if claiming preferential duty rates. Crucially, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), formerly Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is almost always required for chemical imports. The SDS provides critical information on the chemical's properties, hazards, safe handling, and emergency procedures, which is essential for customs, health, and safety authorities. Depending on the specific chemical and its end-use, additional permits or declarations may be necessary from agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US, or equivalent bodies in other countries, especially if the substance is toxic, controlled, or intended for specific applications (e.g., pharmaceuticals, pesticides). Importers should verify all national and local regulations applicable to their specific chemical prior to shipment.

Common trade agreements significantly impact duty rates for HS 2906.19 by often providing 'Free' (0.00%) preferential treatment for originating goods. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), eligible goods originating from Mexico or Canada and imported into the US would typically qualify for a 0.00% duty rate, replacing the MFN rate of 5.5%. Similarly, the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would likely grant 0.00% duty for goods originating in Japan and imported into the EU, or vice-versa, where the MFN rate might otherwise apply. To claim these benefits, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin outlined in the respective agreement and possess valid proof of origin, such as a certification of origin or an origin declaration. Failure to comply with these rules will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate.