HS 290950 Ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives
Quick Answer: HS code 290950 encompasses a specific group of organic chemical compounds: ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols, and their various modified derivatives (halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated). In simpler terms, these are chemical substances combining ether and phenol functional groups, often with an alcohol component, or further chemically altered. These compounds are typically used as intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty polymers. Duty rates vary significantly by jurisdiction and specific product. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff shows rates like 4.00% and 0.00%, while the EU TARIC lists 5.50% and 0.00%. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) presents a broader range, including 4.8% ad valorem for general rates, but also numerous "Free" rates under various preferential trade agreements (e.g., A*, AU, CL, KR). Importers should meticulously classify their specific product to ascertain the correct subheading and leverage any applicable free trade agreement benefits.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909500010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2909500000 | — | — | — |
| 2909500090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909500000 | — | — | — |
| 2909500010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2909500090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909504010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 29095040 | 4.8% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 2909504050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 2909504500 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 290950 | — | — | — |
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 2909.50?
Imports of Ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives 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 17 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 290950 cover?
This subheading covers ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols, and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives, as defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature (WCO HS) and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC. Specifically, it encompasses organic compounds possessing both an ether functional group (-O-) and a phenolic hydroxyl group (-OH) attached directly to an aromatic ring, or compounds with an ether group, an alcohol group, and a phenolic group. Examples include guaiacol (o-methoxyphenol) and eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol), which are ether-phenols, and their various chemically modified forms, provided they retain the essential characteristics of these compounds and are not more specifically provided for elsewhere in Chapter 29.
What falls outside HS 290950?
The following products are excluded from HS 290950: simple ethers (like diethyl ether, 290911) and simple phenols (like phenol, 290711) that do not possess both functional groups as described. Additionally, compounds where the ether linkage is part of a cyclic ether structure (e.g., epoxides, 2910) or where the phenolic group is part of a more complex structure specifically classified elsewhere (e.g., certain heterocyclic compounds of Chapter 29, Section 11) are excluded. For instance, vanillin, despite having an ether and a phenolic group, is classified under 291242 as an aromatic aldehyde, illustrating that specific provisions for more complex functional groups take precedence over the general ether-phenol classification.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290950?
A common error is misclassifying compounds that contain an ether and a hydroxyl group but where the hydroxyl group is not directly attached to an aromatic ring, meaning it is an alcohol-ether rather than an ether-phenol. For example, 2-methoxyethanol (ethylene glycol monomethyl ether) is an alcohol-ether and is classified under 290943, not 290950, because its hydroxyl group is attached to an aliphatic carbon, not an aromatic ring. Another mistake involves overlooking more specific provisions in Chapter 29. General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(a) dictates that the heading providing the most specific description shall be preferred, meaning if a compound is an ether-phenol but also a specific aldehyde or ketone, it would be classified under the more specific aldehyde or ketone heading.
How should importers classify products under HS 290950?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290950 involves a thorough chemical analysis of the compound's structure to confirm the presence of both an ether functional group and a phenolic hydroxyl group (i.e., -OH directly bonded to an aromatic ring), or an ether-alcohol-phenol structure. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2909 and subheading 290950, along with national tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC, to identify specific examples and exclusions. It is crucial to verify that no other heading in Chapter 29 provides a more specific description for the compound, applying GRI 3(a). If doubt persists, requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2909.50?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2909.50, covering 'Ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives,' vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem for many products within this heading. Other countries may apply rates such as 4.8% ad valorem, or in some cases, 0.00% ad valorem. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) or the EU TARIC, for the precise and current MFN rate applicable to their specific product and origin.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry for goods under HS 2909.50 into the United States?
For imports into the United States under HS 2909.50, numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and special programs provide for duty-free entry, often denoted as 'Free' with specific program indicators. Examples of such agreements and programs include: Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic-Central America (CAFTA-DR, D), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (K, KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG). Additionally, programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP, A*) may offer duty-free treatment for eligible developing countries. Importers must ensure their goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria for the respective agreement to qualify for preferential duty treatment. Verification through the USITC HTSUS General Notes is essential.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2909.50 from other ether or phenol classifications?
Classification under HS 2909.50 specifically targets 'Ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' The critical distinction lies in the simultaneous presence of both an ether functional group and a phenol functional group within the same molecule, or an ether, an alcohol, and a phenol group. This differentiates them from simple ethers (e.g., HS 2909.11 to 2909.49) which lack the phenolic hydroxyl, or simple phenols (e.g., HS 2907) which lack the ether linkage. Derivatives, such as those with halogenation, sulfonation, nitration, or nitrosation, remain classified here provided the core ether-phenol or ether-alcohol-phenol structure is maintained. Importers should provide detailed chemical names, CAS numbers, and structural diagrams to customs authorities to ensure accurate classification, referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for importing chemicals under HS 2909.50?
Beyond standard customs documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importers of chemicals under HS 2909.50 may face additional regulatory requirements depending on the specific chemical and destination country. For instance, in the United States, certain chemicals may be subject to regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), requiring TSCA certification. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may also have oversight if the substance is intended for use in food, drugs, or cosmetics. In the EU, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations are paramount, potentially requiring pre-registration or registration. Importers should confirm compliance with all relevant chemical control laws and provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (CoA) to facilitate customs clearance and demonstrate product safety and composition.