HS 290960 Alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, ketone peroxides and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives
Quick Answer: HS code 290960 encompasses a specialized group of organic chemical compounds known as peroxides, specifically alcohol, ether, acetal, hemiacetal, and ketone peroxides, including their chemically modified (halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated) derivatives. These substances are primarily used as polymerization initiators, curing agents, and in various chemical synthesis processes. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates. In the UK, rates range from 0.00% to 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies rates such as 5.00% to 5.50% ad valorem. For the US, rates are typically 5.5% ad valorem, with many products eligible for duty-free treatment under various trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL, KR). However, some specific derivatives can face significantly higher duties, such as 15.4¢/kg + 70.5%. Precise classification at the 8-digit or 10-digit level is crucial to determine the exact applicable duty and any preferential tariff eligibility. Consult the UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, or USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for specific product classifications.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909601000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2909609040 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2909609090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2909600000 | — | — | — |
| 2909609000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2909609090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2909600000 | — | — | — |
| 2909601000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 2909609000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2909609040 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 290960 | — | — | — |
| 2909602000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2909601000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2909605000 | 3.7% | 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 2909.60?
Imports of Alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, ketone peroxides 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 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 290960 cover?
This subheading covers a specific group of organic peroxides, as defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature (HSN) and reflected in official tariff schedules such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC. Specifically, it encompasses alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, and ketone peroxides. It also includes their various derivatives, provided they are halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated. These compounds are characterized by the presence of an oxygen-oxygen single bond (–O–O–) where at least one oxygen atom is bonded to a carbon atom, distinguishing them from simple ethers or alcohols. Examples include di-tert-butyl peroxide and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide, which are widely used as polymerization initiators and cross-linking agents in the plastics and rubber industries.
What falls outside HS 290960?
The following products are excluded from HS 290960, despite their chemical similarities or related applications. Simple ethers and alcohols, which lack the characteristic peroxide linkage, are classified under other subheadings within Chapter 29, such as 290911 (diethyl ether) or 290511 (methanol), respectively. Inorganic peroxides, such as hydrogen peroxide (HS 2847.00.00), are explicitly excluded as Chapter 29 is reserved for organic chemicals. Furthermore, certain organic compounds containing a peroxide group but specifically provided for elsewhere in the nomenclature, perhaps as part of a more complex chemical structure or a specific pharmaceutical product, would take precedence under other headings or chapters according to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs). For instance, some medicinal preparations containing peroxides might fall under Chapter 30 if they are put up in measured doses or for retail sale.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290960?
A common error is misclassifying simple ethers or alcohols as peroxides, or vice versa, due to an incomplete understanding of the chemical structure. Importers sometimes overlook the critical requirement of the –O–O– bond, leading to incorrect assignment. Another frequent mistake involves confusing organic peroxides with inorganic peroxides, which are classified in Chapter 28. Furthermore, derivatives that are not halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated, but perhaps contain other functional groups, might be incorrectly placed here when they should fall under other more specific subheadings within Chapter 29 or even other chapters if they form part of a mixture or preparation. Careful attention to the specific functional groups and the precise wording of the subheading is crucial to avoid these errors, often requiring a detailed chemical analysis or Certificate of Analysis.
How should importers classify products under HS 290960?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290960 involves a systematic approach, beginning with a thorough chemical identification of the product. Importers and customs brokers must obtain and review the product's chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula to confirm the presence of an alcohol, ether, acetal, hemiacetal, or ketone peroxide linkage. It is essential to verify that the compound is indeed an organic peroxide and not a simple ether, alcohol, or an inorganic peroxide. If derivatives are present, confirm they are specifically halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated. Consult the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs), particularly GRI 1, to ensure the classification is based on the most specific description. Always cross-reference with official tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC and, if doubt persists, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority 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) duty rates for products classified under HS 2909.60 in major trading blocs, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2909.60, which covers 'Alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, ketone peroxides and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives,' vary significantly by importing country or customs union. For example, the United States generally applies a duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database shows a common customs tariff of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem rate. Some countries may apply specific duties or a combination, such as the 15.4¢/kg + 70.5% found in certain non-MFN or outlier schedules. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date MFN duty rate applicable at the time of import.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free or reduced rates for goods under HS 2909.60, and what are the typical requirements to claim these benefits?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free or reduced rates for products classified under HS 2909.60. For instance, the United States offers duty-free treatment under various agreements, often indicated by special program indicators (SPIs) like 'A+' (Generalized System of Preferences for Least Developed Beneficiary Developing Countries), 'AU' (Australia FTA), 'BH' (Bahrain FTA), 'CL' (Chile FTA), 'CO' (Colombia TPA), 'D' (Andean Trade Preference Act), 'E' (Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act), 'IL' (Israel FTA), 'JO' (Jordan FTA), 'KR' (Korea FTA), 'MA' (Morocco FTA), 'OM' (Oman FTA), 'P' (Panama TPA), 'PA' (Panama TPA), 'PE' (Peru TPA), 'S' (Singapore FTA), and 'SG' (Singapore FTA). To claim these benefits, importers must typically provide a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration demonstrating that the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective agreement. Customs brokers should verify the origin criteria and documentation requirements for each specific agreement and ensure all necessary paperwork accompanies the import declaration.
What are the key classification criteria and considerations for correctly assigning products to HS 2909.60, particularly distinguishing them from other organic peroxides or ethers?
The key classification criteria for HS 2909.60 revolve around the specific chemical structure of the organic peroxides. This heading specifically covers 'Alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, ketone peroxides and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' The presence of the peroxide (-O-O-) functional group is paramount, combined with its attachment to an alcohol, ether, acetal, hemiacetal, or ketone moiety. It's crucial to distinguish these from simple ethers (HS 2909.11 through 2909.50) which lack the peroxide linkage, and from other organic peroxides not specifically enumerated in this heading, which might fall under HS 2909.90 (Other ether-alcohols, ether-phenols, ether-alcohol-phenols, alcohol peroxides, ether peroxides, acetal and hemiacetal peroxides, ketone peroxides and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives). The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide detailed guidance on the chemical definitions and structural requirements for each sub-heading. Importers should have precise chemical names, CAS numbers, and structural formulas available for customs authorities to ensure accurate classification.
Are there any specific documentation requirements, safety certifications, or import restrictions commonly associated with chemicals classified under HS 2909.60 due to their nature as peroxides?
Yes, due to the inherent reactive and potentially hazardous nature of peroxides, including those under HS 2909.60, there are often specific documentation requirements, safety certifications, and import restrictions. Importers should be prepared to provide: 1. Safety Data Sheets (SDS): These are mandatory in most jurisdictions (e.g., OSHA in the US, REACH in the EU) and provide critical information on hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency procedures. 2. Dangerous Goods Declarations: If transported as hazardous materials (which many peroxides are), compliance with international regulations like IMDG Code (maritime), IATA DGR (air), or ADR (road) is required, including proper labeling and packaging. 3. Permits or Licenses: Depending on the specific chemical and its end-use, import permits from environmental protection agencies, chemical control authorities, or even national security bodies may be necessary. For instance, certain highly reactive peroxides could be subject to precursor controls. 4. Certificates of Analysis (CoA): To verify the chemical composition and purity. Customs brokers should advise importers to confirm all national and international regulations pertaining to the transport, storage, and handling of hazardous chemicals before importation.