HS 290943 Monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol
Quick Answer: HS code 290943 specifically covers monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol, commonly known as butyl cellosolve or butyl diglycol. These organic chemical compounds are primarily used as solvents in paints, coatings, inks, and cleaning products, as well as in hydraulic fluids and chemical intermediates. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU and US generally levy 5.5% ad valorem. Crucially, the US offers duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for eligible goods from countries such as Australia, Korea, and Mexico. Conversely, goods from non-preferential countries may face a higher 54.5% duty in the US. Accurate origin determination is vital to leverage preferential tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909430000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909430000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909430000 | 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 2909.43?
Imports of Monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290943 cover?
This subheading covers monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol, specifically referring to chemical compounds where a single butyl group is attached via an ether linkage to either ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol. These are commonly known as butyl cellosolve (for ethylene glycol monobutyl ether) and butyl carbitol (for diethylene glycol monobutyl ether). The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, as reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system, precisely defines these as acyclic ethers and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. These chemicals are widely used as solvents in paints, coatings, inks, and cleaning products due to their excellent solvency and low volatility.
What falls outside HS 290943?
The following products are excluded from HS 290943: other ethers of ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol, such as dibutyl ethers or diethyl ethers, which would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2909 based on their specific chemical structure. For instance, diethylene glycol diethyl ether would fall under 2909.49. Additionally, polyethers with more than two ether linkages, or those derived from glycols other than ethylene or diethylene glycol, are also excluded. For example, propylene glycol monobutyl ether, while a glycol ether, is not specifically covered here and would typically be classified under 2909.49. Products that are mixtures, where the monobutyl ethers are not the predominant component, might also be classified elsewhere depending on the nature of the mixture and the application of General Interpretive Rule 3.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290943?
A common error is misclassifying other glycol ethers, particularly those with different alkyl groups or multiple ether linkages, into HS 290943. Importers sometimes incorrectly assume that any "butyl glycol ether" belongs here, overlooking the specific requirement for *mono*butyl ethers of *ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol*. For example, classifying diethylene glycol *dibutyl* ether under 290943 instead of 290949 is a frequent mistake, as the former has two butyl groups. Another error involves misidentifying the base glycol, such as classifying propylene glycol monobutyl ether here, which is incorrect as it is not derived from ethylene or diethylene glycol. Adherence to General Interpretive Rule 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 290943?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290943 involves a meticulous review of the chemical's precise name and structure. Importers and customs brokers should first confirm that the product is indeed a monobutyl ether. Secondly, they must verify that the glycol component is specifically ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol, and not another glycol like propylene glycol. Consulting the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by the manufacturer is essential to confirm the exact chemical identity. In cases of doubt, a binding ruling request from the relevant customs authority (e.g., U.S. Customs and Border Protection for the US, or the national customs authority for EU member states) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays. This proactive approach minimizes classification risks and ensures accurate duty assessment.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2909.43 in key markets, and what preferential rates might apply?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for 'Monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol' (HS 2909.43) vary by importing country. For example, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. The European Union (EU TARIC) generally applies an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Trade Tariff also lists an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the current rates with the official customs tariff of the importing country. Preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate duties under various free trade agreements (FTAs). For instance, imports into the U.S. from countries like Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, Korea (ROK), Morocco, Oman, Panama, Peru, Singapore, and others may be eligible for 'Free' duty under specific trade agreements, provided the goods meet the rules of origin requirements. It is crucial for importers to claim these preferential rates correctly by providing the necessary origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2909.43, specifically 'Monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol'?
HS code 2909.43 specifically covers 'Monobutyl ethers of ethylene glycol or of diethylene glycol'. The primary classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure and function of the compound. These are organic chemicals characterized by an ether functional group (-O-) and derived from either ethylene glycol (HO-CH2-CH2-OH) or diethylene glycol (HO-CH2-CH2-O-CH2-CH2-OH), where one of the hydroxyl groups is etherified with a butyl group. Examples include 2-butoxyethanol (ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, EGBE) and 2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol (diethylene glycol monobutyl ether, DEGBE). Classification under this subheading requires the substance to be a monobutyl ether, meaning only one butyl group is present, and it must be derived from ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol. Products that are dibutyl ethers, or ethers of other glycols (e.g., propylene glycol), or mixed ethers would fall under different subheadings within Chapter 29 or other chapters, depending on their specific chemical identity.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2909.43?
For imports under HS 2909.43, standard customs documentation is required, which typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. To claim preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement (e.g., 'Free' duty for eligible countries), a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration (depending on the specific FTA and value threshold) is essential. Importers should also be prepared to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for chemical products, as this may be requested by customs or other regulatory agencies for hazard assessment and compliance with chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU). Additionally, depending on the end-use or specific national regulations, other permits or licenses related to chemical imports might be necessary.
Are there any specific trade agreements that offer significant duty reductions or exemptions for HS 2909.43, and what should importers know about them?
Yes, numerous trade agreements offer significant duty reductions or exemptions for products classified under HS 2909.43. For U.S. imports, agreements such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), KORUS (U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), and FTAs with countries like Australia, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Panama, Peru, and Singapore often provide 'Free' duty treatment. Similarly, the EU has a vast network of FTAs (e.g., with Canada, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, UK) that can offer preferential rates. The UK also maintains its own network of FTAs post-Brexit. Importers must ensure that their goods meet the specific 'rules of origin' criteria outlined in the respective trade agreement to qualify for preferential treatment. This typically involves demonstrating that the product was wholly obtained or underwent sufficient transformation in the partner country. Failure to meet these rules or provide proper origin documentation will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate. Customs brokers can assist in verifying origin eligibility and preparing the necessary documentation.