HS 291242 Ethylvanillin (3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde)

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Ethylvanillin (HS 2912.42) varies by importing country. For instance, the general MFN duty rate in the United States is 4.0% ad valorem, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) 2024. In the European Union, the MFN duty rate under TARIC is also 4.0% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) similarly applies a 4.0% ad valorem MFN rate. Some countries, however, may have higher MFN rates; for example, certain developing nations might apply rates such as 5.5% ad valorem or even complex rates like 15.4¢/kg + 80% in specific circumstances, although the latter is less common for this particular product in major trading blocs. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and current MFN rate.

Ethylvanillin is classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2912.42 as 'Ethylvanillin (3-ethoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde)'. The primary classification criterion is its precise chemical structure: an aromatic aldehyde with an ethoxy group at position 3 and a hydroxyl group at position 4. This specificity distinguishes it from related compounds such as vanillin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde), which is classified under HS 2912.41. The presence of the ethoxy group instead of a methoxy group is the key chemical differentiator for classification purposes. Customs authorities rely on chemical analysis reports, Certificates of Analysis (CoA), and product specifications to confirm the exact chemical identity and ensure correct classification under this subheading, as per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes to Chapter 29.

Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Ethylvanillin (HS 2912.42), often resulting in a 'Free' (0%) duty rate. For imports into the United States, preferential rates are available under agreements such as the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), US-Bahrain FTA (BH), US-Chile FTA (CL), US-Colombia TPA (CO), US-Israel FTA (IL), US-Jordan FTA (JO), US-Korea FTA (KR), US-Morocco FTA (MA), US-Oman FTA (OM), US-Panama TPA (PA), US-Peru TPA (PE), and US-Singapore FTA (SG). Similar preferential treatment exists under agreements like the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or various bilateral FTAs. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form A for GSP, or a specific FTA certificate like a USMCA Certificate of Origin for trade between US, Mexico, and Canada, though USMCA does not apply to this specific list of countries), which attests that the Ethylvanillin meets the rules of origin requirements of the respective agreement. Customs brokers must ensure all origin criteria are met and proper documentation is submitted at the time of entry.

Beyond standard commercial documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Ethylvanillin (HS 2912.42) may face additional requirements depending on the end-use and destination country regulations. As Ethylvanillin is often used in food flavorings, fragrances, and pharmaceuticals, regulatory bodies like the FDA in the US, EFSA in the EU, or similar authorities globally may require specific declarations or certifications. These could include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing purity, specifications, and testing methods; a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous communication; and sometimes a declaration of compliance with food-grade or pharmaceutical-grade standards. For certain applications, a declaration regarding the absence of specific contaminants or allergens might also be necessary. Importers should verify all country-specific and end-use specific regulatory requirements prior to shipment to ensure compliance.