HS 291250 Cyclic polymers of aldehydes
Quick Answer: HS code 291250 covers "Cyclic polymers of aldehydes," which are chemical compounds formed by the cyclic polymerization of aldehydes. A common example is paraldehyde, a cyclic trimer of acetaldehyde. These substances are typically used as chemical intermediates, solvents, or in the pharmaceutical industry. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty rates is crucial. In the UK, the general Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. For the US, the MFN rate is 5.5% ad valorem, though certain products under this heading may face a 40% rate. Significantly, many US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners (e.g., Australia, Korea, Mexico, Singapore) benefit from a "Free" duty rate, offering substantial cost savings for eligible goods. Always verify specific product classification and origin to leverage preferential tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912500000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2912500000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 291250 | — | — | — |
| 2912505000 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2912501000 | 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 2912.50?
Imports of Cyclic polymers of aldehydes 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291250 cover?
This subheading covers cyclic polymers of aldehydes, specifically those chemical compounds where aldehyde monomers have polymerized to form a ring structure. A prominent example is paraldehyde, which is a cyclic trimer of acetaldehyde, and metaldehyde, a cyclic tetramer of acetaldehyde. These substances are distinct from linear polymers of aldehydes and are classified here due to their specific cyclic molecular arrangement. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2912 confirm that this subheading is dedicated to these specific cyclic structures, which are often used as intermediates in organic synthesis or as fuel additives, reflecting their distinct chemical properties and applications.
What falls outside HS 291250?
The following products are excluded from HS 291250: linear polymers of aldehydes, such as polyoxymethylene (paraformaldehyde), which are classified under other subheadings within Heading 2912 or potentially in Chapter 39 if they meet the definition of plastics. Additionally, non-polymeric aldehydes, even if cyclic in nature (e.g., cyclic aldehydes that are not polymers), are excluded and would be classified under other appropriate subheadings of Heading 2912 based on their specific chemical structure. For instance, formaldehyde (methanal) itself, a simple aldehyde, is classified under 2912.11.00.00, not as a cyclic polymer.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291250?
A common error is misclassifying linear polymers of aldehydes, such as paraformaldehyde, under HS 291250 instead of their correct subheading, often 2912.19.00.00 for other acyclic aldehydes and their derivatives, or even Chapter 39 if they are considered plastics. This mistake typically arises from a failure to distinguish between cyclic and linear polymerization structures, which is a critical differentiator for this subheading. Importers sometimes overlook the "cyclic polymers" specificity, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues, emphasizing the importance of precise chemical identification and adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 291250?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291250 involves a thorough chemical analysis to confirm the presence of a cyclic polymer of an aldehyde. Importers and customs brokers should obtain detailed chemical specifications, including the molecular structure, from the manufacturer. This documentation should explicitly state that the product is a cyclic polymer of an aldehyde, such as paraldehyde or metaldehyde. Cross-referencing with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2912 and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) or the EU TARIC system for specific rulings or interpretations related to cyclic aldehyde polymers is also crucial to ensure accurate classification and compliance with import regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2912.50 ('Cyclic polymers of aldehydes')?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2912.50, 'Cyclic polymers of aldehydes,' generally range. For example, the United States imposes an MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN duty rate. Importers should always verify the current MFN rate applicable in their specific destination country via official customs tariff schedules (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry for 'Cyclic polymers of aldehydes' under HS 2912.50?
Many preferential trade agreements provide duty-free entry for goods classified under HS 2912.50. For imports into the United States, duty-free treatment ('Free' rate) is available under agreements with countries such as 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 may exist for imports into the EU or UK from various partner countries. Importers must ensure that the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective trade agreement and provide proper documentation (e.g., a Certificate of Origin) to claim preferential tariff treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Cyclic polymers of aldehydes' under HS 2912.50?
HS 2912.50 specifically covers 'Cyclic polymers of aldehydes.' The primary classification criterion is the chemical structure of the compound: it must be a polymer formed from aldehyde monomers and possess a cyclic structure. This differentiates it from acyclic aldehydes (e.g., HS 2912.11 to 2912.49) and other aldehyde derivatives. Importers should have detailed chemical specifications, including the CAS number, chemical name, and structural formula, to accurately confirm that the product is indeed a cyclic polymer of an aldehyde. Reference to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 29 provides further guidance on the scope of aldehyde classifications.
What documentation is typically required to import goods under HS 2912.50, especially when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS 2912.50 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 regulatory bodies. When claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement (e.g., 'Free' rates for goods from Korea into the US), a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration (depending on the specific agreement and value thresholds) is mandatory. This document certifies that the goods meet the Rules of Origin requirements of the respective agreement. Customs brokers will also require a power of attorney and importer identification details. Failure to provide correct documentation can lead to delays, penalties, or denial of preferential treatment.
Are there any specific anti-dumping duties or other special measures that might apply to 'Cyclic polymers of aldehydes' under HS 2912.50?
While general MFN and preferential duty rates apply, importers should always check for any country-specific anti-dumping duties (ADD), countervailing duties (CVD), or other special trade measures that might be in effect for products under HS 2912.50. These measures are typically imposed on goods originating from specific countries to counteract unfair trade practices. For instance, the United States, European Union, and United Kingdom regularly conduct trade remedies investigations. Importers should consult the official trade remedies databases of the importing country (e.g., US International Trade Commission, EU Anti-Dumping and Anti-Subsidy Measures database, UK Trade Remedies Authority) to determine if any such duties apply to their specific product and country of origin, as these can significantly increase the total landed cost.