HS 291241 Aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols and aldehydes with other oxygen function
Quick Answer: HS code 291241 encompasses complex organic compounds characterized by both an aldehyde group and at least one other oxygen-containing functional group, such as an alcohol, ether, or phenol. This includes substances like hydroxyaldehydes, which are crucial intermediates in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, often used in synthesizing fragrances, flavors, and polymers. Importers into the UK face a Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 4.00% ad valorem. For EU imports, the MFN rate is 5.50% ad valorem. US imports are subject to an MFN rate of 5.5% ad valorem, with many preferential trade agreements (e.g., under GSP, FTAs with Australia, Korea, Mexico) offering duty-free entry. Customs brokers should verify specific product composition and origin to leverage potential duty reductions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912410000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2912410090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2912410010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912410010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2912410090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2912410000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912410000 | 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 2912.41?
Imports of Aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols and aldehydes with 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291241 cover?
This subheading covers aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols, and aldehydes with other oxygen functions, specifically vanillin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde). As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this classification is precise. Vanillin is a well-known aromatic aldehyde extensively used in the food, fragrance, and pharmaceutical industries, characterized by its distinct vanilla flavor and aroma. Its chemical structure includes both an aldehyde group and a hydroxyl group, as well as a methoxy group, fulfilling the "aldehyde with other oxygen function" criteria.
What falls outside HS 291241?
The following products are excluded from HS 291241: other aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols, and aldehydes with other oxygen functions that are not vanillin. For instance, ethylvanillin (3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde), while structurally similar and also an aromatic aldehyde, is specifically classified under HS subheading 2912.42. Salicylaldehyde (2-hydroxybenzaldehyde), an aldehyde-phenol, would fall under HS 2912.49 as "other" aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols and aldehydes with other oxygen functions, not being vanillin or ethylvanillin. Similarly, simple aldehydes without additional oxygen functions, such as benzaldehyde, are classified under HS 2912.19.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291241?
A common error is misclassifying ethylvanillin as vanillin under HS 291241 due to their similar applications and names. Importers often overlook the specific chemical distinction, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures containing vanillin under this subheading, when in fact, such mixtures, especially those prepared for food flavoring, often fall under Chapter 21 (e.g., HS 2106.90 for food preparations not elsewhere specified or included) or Chapter 33 (e.g., HS 3302.10 for mixtures of odoriferous substances used in the food or drink industries), depending on their composition and intended use, in accordance with General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) or 3(c).
How should importers classify products under HS 291241?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291241 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical name and structure to confirm it is precisely vanillin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, which explicitly states the chemical name and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number. For vanillin, the CAS number is 121-33-5. This documentation provides irrefutable evidence for classification. Always consult the most current version of the HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff to verify the specific subheading and associated duty rates, which for vanillin in the US is 3.5% ad valorem, as of the latest update.
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 2912.41 in major trading blocs, and how do these compare?
For products classified under HS 2912.41, which covers 'Aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols and aldehydes with other oxygen function,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates vary by customs territory. For instance, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff of 5.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 5.5% ad valorem duty. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable at the time of importation through the official customs tariff databases of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free or reduced rates for HS 2912.41, and what are the implications for importers?
Many preferential trade agreements offer duty-free or reduced rates for products under HS 2912.41, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. For example, imports into the United States from countries like 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) may be eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Similarly, the EU has numerous agreements that could grant preferential access. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement's origin rules and ensure they obtain a valid Certificate of Origin or equivalent declaration from the exporter to claim preferential tariffs. Failure to meet origin requirements will result in the application of the MFN duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2912.41 from other aldehyde classifications?
HS 2912.41 specifically covers 'Aldehyde-alcohols, aldehyde-ethers, aldehyde-phenols and aldehydes with other oxygen function.' The critical classification criterion is the presence of an aldehyde functional group (-CHO) in conjunction with another oxygen-containing functional group, such as a hydroxyl group (making it an aldehyde-alcohol), an ether linkage (aldehyde-ether), or a phenolic group (aldehyde-phenol). This distinguishes it from simpler acyclic aldehydes without other oxygen functions (e.g., HS 2912.11 or 2912.12) or cyclic aldehydes without other oxygen functions (e.g., HS 2912.21 or 2912.29). Accurate chemical nomenclature and structural analysis are essential for correct classification, often requiring a Certificate of Analysis or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the chemical composition and functional groups present.
What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the importation of chemicals classified under HS 2912.41?
For the importation of chemicals under HS 2912.41, standard customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the chemical nature of the goods, customs authorities often require a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to assess potential hazards and regulatory compliance. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may also be requested to verify the chemical composition, purity, and specifications, which can be crucial for classification accuracy and compliance with product safety regulations. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or origin declaration is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared for potential scrutiny regarding chemical import regulations, which may include registration requirements under schemes like REACH in the EU or TSCA in the US, depending on the specific chemical and its intended use.