HS 291249 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 291249, "Other," encompasses a diverse range of acyclic aldehydes, specifically those not falling under more specific subheadings within 2912.4. This includes various complex aldehyde compounds used in pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and chemical synthesis. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU generally levies 5.50% ad valorem. In the US, rates vary significantly, from 5.5% ad valorem to "Free" under numerous trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, CL, KR), and some specific products face high rates like 15.4¢/kg + 58%. Due to the "Other" designation, precise classification requires careful review of product specifications against national tariff notes to avoid misclassification and ensure accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912490000 | — | — | — |
| 2912490050 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2912490070 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2912490030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2912490060 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912490000 | — | — | — |
| 2912490030 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2912490050 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2912490070 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2912490090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 291249 | — | — | — |
| 2912492600 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2912496000 | 5.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2912491000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2912491500 | Free | — | ["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 2912.49?
Imports of Other 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291249 cover?
This subheading covers cyclic aldehydes, other than benzaldehyde (2912.21), phenylacetaldehyde (2912.29), and other specified cyclic aldehydes of subheadings 2912.29. It specifically encompasses a residual category for cyclic aldehydes that do not fall into the more specific subheadings within Heading 2912. This includes various complex cyclic aldehyde structures, such as those with multiple rings or additional functional groups, provided they retain the aldehyde function as their principal characteristic. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2912 clarify that this heading covers aldehydes, whether or not containing other oxygen-functions, provided the aldehyde function predominates. Examples include certain terpene aldehydes or heterocyclic aldehydes not elsewhere specified.
What falls outside HS 291249?
The following products are excluded from HS 291249: benzaldehyde, which is specifically classified under HS 2912.21, and phenylacetaldehyde, which falls under HS 2912.29. Additionally, other specific cyclic aldehydes explicitly listed in other subheadings of 2912.29 are also excluded. Aldehydes that are derivatives of carbohydrates, such as aldoses, are classified in Chapter 29 under their specific chemical names or in Chapter 17 if they are sugars. Furthermore, cyclic aldehydes that are part of more complex chemical structures where another functional group predominates, such as a carboxylic acid or ester, would be classified according to that predominant function elsewhere in Chapter 29 or other relevant chapters. For instance, vanillin, a methoxybenzaldehyde, is specifically classified under HS 2912.42, not this residual "other" category.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291249?
A common error is misclassifying specific cyclic aldehydes that have their own dedicated subheadings, such as vanillin (2912.42) or ethyl vanillin (2912.49, but often confused with vanillin), into this residual "other" category. Importers sometimes overlook the detailed breakdown within Heading 2912, leading to incorrect use of the "other" subheading. Another frequent mistake involves classifying cyclic aldehydes that are part of mixtures or preparations where the aldehyde is not the sole or principal component. General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) would apply in such cases, often leading to classification based on the essential character of the mixture. Incorrectly applying GRI 1 by not considering the full legal text of the subheadings is also a common pitfall, leading to improper classification of specific cyclic aldehydes that have more precise homes.
How should importers classify products under HS 291249?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291249 involves a systematic review of the chemical structure and the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2912. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed a cyclic aldehyde. Subsequently, they must meticulously check all more specific subheadings within Heading 2912, particularly those under 2912.21, 2912.29, and 2912.41 through 2912.42, to ensure the product is not explicitly covered elsewhere. Only after confirming that the cyclic aldehyde does not fit any other specific description within the heading should it be classified under 2912.49. Consulting the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or EU TARIC for specific national interpretations and binding rulings is also a crucial step to ensure accurate and compliant classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 2912.49 'Other' in key markets, and how do preferential rates apply?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rate for HS 2912.49 'Other' varies by importing country. For example, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem (Source: USITC HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists 5.5% ad valorem. Preferential rates can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, under various US Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), imports from countries such as Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Korea (KR), Panama (PA), and Peru (PE) may enter duty-free. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement and provide the necessary Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment.
What specific types of aldehydes are classified under HS 2912.49 'Other', and what are the key classification criteria?
HS 2912.49 is a residual 'Other' subheading within heading 29.12, which covers 'Aldehydes, whether or not with other oxygen function; cyclic polymers of aldehydes; paraformaldehyde.' This subheading captures aldehydes that are not specifically provided for in subheadings 2912.11 through 2912.42. Examples of compounds that might fall under 2912.49 include various aromatic or acyclic aldehydes not elsewhere specified, such as certain substituted benzaldehydes or higher aliphatic aldehydes. The key classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure, specifically the presence of an aldehyde functional group (-CHO), and ensuring the compound does not meet the specific structural requirements for other, more specific aldehyde subheadings within 29.12 (e.g., formaldehyde, ethanal, benzaldehyde, or vanillin).
What documentation is typically required for the import of goods classified under HS 2912.49, particularly when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS 2912.49 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For chemical products, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is often required by customs authorities for hazard assessment and regulatory compliance. When claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., a USMCA Certificate of Origin for trade with North America, or a EUR.1 movement certificate for certain EU agreements) is mandatory. This document certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin requirements of the respective agreement. Failure to provide correct documentation can result in duty assessment at the MFN rate, delays, or penalties.
Which major trade agreements offer duty-free or reduced rates for products under HS 2912.49, and what steps should importers take?
Numerous trade agreements offer preferential treatment for products under HS 2912.49. For US imports, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America FTA), and FTAs with Australia, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Korea, Panama, and Peru typically provide duty-free access. For EU imports, agreements like the EU-Japan EPA, EU-South Korea FTA, and agreements with various developing countries under the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) can offer reduced or zero duties. Importers should: 1) Verify the country of origin of the goods, 2) Confirm the goods meet the specific rules of origin criteria of the relevant FTA, 3) Obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, and 4) Declare the appropriate preference program code to customs at the time of entry. Consulting a customs broker or trade compliance specialist is recommended to ensure accurate claims.