HS 290711 Monophenols
Quick Answer: HS code 290711 covers "Monophenols," specifically phenol (hydroxybenzene) and its salts. This classification includes the simplest aromatic alcohol, a fundamental organic chemical used extensively in the production of plastics (like phenolic resins and bisphenol A), pharmaceuticals, and various other chemical intermediates. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 2.00% ad valorem duty, the EU a 3.00% ad valorem duty, and the US a 5.5% ad valorem duty, with significant preferential duty treatment (Free) available under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR). Additionally, the US imposes a column 2 rate of 15.4¢/kg + 44%. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage preferential trade agreements and ensure compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2907110000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2907110000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2907110000 | 5.5% | Free (17 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 2907.11?
Imports of Monophenols 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 14 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 290711 cover?
This subheading covers phenol, also known as carbolic acid, which is a monophenol. Specifically, it refers to the simplest aromatic alcohol, C6H5OH, characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) directly attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon group. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2907 confirm that phenol is the primary substance classified here. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, explicitly list "Phenol (hydroxybenzene) and its salts" under this specific eight-digit code, ensuring a consistent global classification for this fundamental chemical compound.
What falls outside HS 290711?
The following products are excluded from HS 290711: cresols (methylphenols), xylenols (dimethylphenols), and other monophenols with additional substituents on the benzene ring, which are classified under HS 2907.12. Furthermore, diphenols (e.g., resorcinol, hydroquinone) and polyphenols, possessing two or more hydroxyl groups attached to the aromatic ring, are classified under HS 2907.21 through 2907.29. Phenol derivatives where the hydroxyl group is etherified or esterified are also excluded, as they are no longer simple phenols but rather ethers or esters of phenols, falling into other subheadings within Chapter 29 or even Chapter 38 if mixtures.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290711?
A common error is misclassifying substituted monophenols, such as cresols or xylenols, under HS 290711 instead of HS 290712. Importers sometimes overlook the "unsubstituted" nature implied by the specific listing of "Phenol" in 290711, failing to recognize that any additional alkyl groups on the benzene ring shift the classification. This often stems from an insufficient application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Additionally, confusion can arise with mixtures containing phenol, where the predominant component or essential character, as per GRI 3(b), must be carefully assessed to determine the correct classification, potentially leading to Chapter 38 if it's a prepared mixture.
How should importers classify products under HS 290711?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290711 involves first confirming the chemical identity as pure phenol (hydroxybenzene). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) that explicitly states the chemical name and CAS number (108-95-2) for phenol. Verify that the product is not a derivative, mixture, or a substituted monophenol. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2907 for detailed guidance on monophenols. If there is any doubt regarding purity or the presence of other functional groups, consider seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) to ensure accurate and legally compliant classification, mitigating potential penalties or delays.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for products classified under HS 2907.11 (Phenol and its salts)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2907.11 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS), the general MFN duty rate for 2907.11.00.00 (Phenol) is 3.5% ad valorem. However, specific subheadings or product forms within this classification might have different rates. Importers should always consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the precise and current duty rate applicable to their specific product and origin.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2907.11 under common free trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2907.11 depending on the country of origin and the applicable free trade agreement (FTA). For instance, under the U.S. HTSUS, imports of phenol (2907.11.00.00) from countries with which the U.S. has an FTA, 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), are eligible for duty-free treatment, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Importers must ensure they have valid certificates of origin (e.g., FTA certificates) to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2907.11 from other phenols or related organic chemicals?
HS 2907.11 specifically covers 'Phenol (hydroxybenzene) and its salts.' The primary criterion for classification under this subheading is that the substance must be phenol itself, which is the simplest aromatic alcohol with the chemical formula C6H5OH, or its corresponding salts. This distinguishes it from cresols (methylphenols) and xylenols (dimethylphenols) which fall under 2907.12, and other monophenols (2907.13 through 2907.19), as well as polyphenols (2907.21 through 2907.29). Classification hinges on the precise chemical structure and identity of the monophenol. Importers should refer to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2907.11?
Standard import documentation for HS 2907.11 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a certificate of analysis (CoA) to confirm the chemical identity and purity. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid certificate of origin (e.g., a NAFTA/USMCA certificate, KORUS certificate, etc.) is mandatory. Depending on the specific end-use or regulatory requirements in the importing country, additional permits or declarations related to chemical safety, environmental regulations, or controlled substances may be necessary. Customs brokers can provide specific guidance based on the destination country and product details.
Are there any specific trade compliance considerations or restrictions for importing phenol (HS 2907.11)?
While phenol itself is a widely traded industrial chemical, importers should be aware of potential regulatory oversight due to its hazardous nature. Phenol is corrosive and toxic, and its handling, storage, and transportation are subject to various safety regulations (e.g., OSHA in the U.S., REACH in the EU). While not typically a controlled substance for illicit purposes, some countries may have reporting requirements for certain high-volume chemical imports. Importers should verify any specific national or regional chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., CLP Regulation in the EU) that might apply to phenol to ensure full compliance beyond standard customs procedures.