HS 291211 Acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen function
Quick Answer: HS code 2912.11 covers acyclic aldehydes that do not contain any other oxygen-bearing functional groups. In simpler terms, this includes straight-chain or branched organic compounds featuring an aldehyde group (CHO) as their sole oxygen-containing functional group. A common example is formaldehyde. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50%. For the US, the general duty rate is 2.8%, but many countries benefit from duty-free treatment under various trade agreements (e.g., Australia, Korea, Mexico). Conversely, countries not eligible for Most Favored Nation (MFN) status face a 12.1% duty. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage preferential trade agreements and avoid penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912110000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912110000 | 2.8% | 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 2912.11?
Imports of Acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen function 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291211 cover?
This subheading covers methanal (formaldehyde), a fundamental organic chemical compound. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (ENs) for Heading 2912, it specifically encompasses acyclic aldehydes that do not possess any other oxygen-containing functional groups, such as hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), or ether (-O-) groups. Methanal is the simplest aldehyde, characterized by a single carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to two hydrogen atoms. It is widely used in the production of resins, plastics, and various other chemical intermediates, and its classification here is consistent across the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system.
What falls outside HS 291211?
The following products are excluded from HS 291211: aldehydes that contain additional oxygen functions, such as hydroxyaldehydes (e.g., glycolaldehyde, classified under 2912.41), aldehydic ethers, aldehydic phenols, or other compounds with multiple oxygen-containing functional groups. For example, vanillin, which is an aromatic aldehyde also containing a phenolic hydroxyl group and an ether group, is classified under 2912.42. Similarly, cyclic aldehydes, whether aromatic or alicyclic, are excluded and fall under subheadings like 2912.21 (benzaldehyde) or 2912.29. Aldehyde polymers, such as paraformaldehyde, are also excluded from this specific subheading and are typically found under 2922.19 or Chapter 39 if they meet the criteria for plastics.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291211?
A common error is misclassifying formaldehyde solutions or polymers. While HS 291211 specifically covers methanal (formaldehyde) in its monomeric form, often in aqueous solution (formalin), highly polymerized forms like paraformaldehyde are frequently mistaken for the monomer. Paraformaldehyde, a linear polymer of formaldehyde, is generally classified under HS 2922.19. Another mistake involves products where formaldehyde is merely a component of a mixture or preparation, rather than the principal constituent, which might lead to classification under a different heading or chapter based on the nature of the mixture, as per General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b). Importers must carefully distinguish between the pure chemical and its derivatives or preparations.
How should importers classify products under HS 291211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291211 requires a thorough review of the chemical's structure and composition. Importers and customs brokers should first confirm that the product is indeed methanal (formaldehyde) and that it does not possess any other oxygen-containing functional groups, adhering strictly to the text of Heading 2912 and Subheading 291211. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and Heading 2912 is crucial to understand the scope and exclusions. For aqueous solutions, ensure the concentration of formaldehyde is consistent with typical commercial forms. If there is any doubt regarding the presence of other functional groups or polymerization, a chemical analysis report should be obtained to support the classification decision, ensuring compliance with USITC HTS or EU TARIC regulations.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2912.11, 'Acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen function'?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2912.11 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) General Note 3(b). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem for many products under this heading. Other countries may apply rates such as 4.00%, 2.8%, or even higher, up to 12.1% in some jurisdictions. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the precise and current MFN duty rate.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for HS 2912.11, 'Acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen function'?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free access for products classified under HS 2912.11, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. For imports into the United States, duty-free treatment (indicated by 'Free' or 'A' in the 'Special' column of the HTSUS) is available under agreements such as the USMCA (Mexico, Canada), various FTAs 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). Similar preferential rates, often duty-free, exist under EU agreements (e.g., with D, E, S for specific agreements) and other bilateral or multilateral agreements globally. Importers must ensure they have valid Certificates of Origin or other required documentation to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2912.11, 'Acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen function'?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2912.11 is that the substance must be an 'acyclic aldehyde' and must not possess 'other oxygen function'. This means the molecule's carbon chain is open (not a ring structure) and contains an aldehyde functional group (-CHO). Crucially, it must lack any other oxygen-containing functional groups such as hydroxyl (-OH), ether (-O-), ester (-COO-), ketone (>C=O, not part of the aldehyde), or carboxylic acid (-COOH) groups. If another oxygen function is present, the substance would be classified under a different subheading, such as 2912.19 (other acyclic aldehydes) or other headings within Chapter 29 depending on the specific functional groups. For example, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are common examples that fall under this heading.
What specific documentation is typically required by customs authorities when importing goods under HS 2912.11?
In addition to standard import documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/airway bill, importers of chemicals under HS 2912.11 may require specific technical documentation. This often includes a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide information on the chemical's properties, hazards, and safe handling. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may also be requested to confirm the purity, composition, and specifications of the imported aldehyde. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, or self-certification by the exporter) is mandatory. Customs authorities may also require import licenses or permits depending on the specific chemical and national regulations, especially if it's a controlled substance or precursor.