HS 291413 4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone)
Quick Answer: HS Code 291413 specifically covers 4-Methylpentan-2-one, commonly known as Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK). MIBK is an organic chemical compound primarily used as a solvent in various industries, including paints, coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals. It's also utilized in the extraction of certain metals and as a denaturant for alcohol. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. For the US, the general most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate is 4% ad valorem, with numerous preferential programs offering duty-free entry (e.g., under A*, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). A higher Column 2 rate of 20% applies to non-MFN countries. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage applicable trade agreements and avoid compliance issues.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914130000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914130000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914130000 | 4% | 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 2914.13?
Imports of 4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone) 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, 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 291413 cover?
This subheading covers 4-Methylpentan-2-one, commonly known as methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK). MIBK is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet odor, primarily used as a solvent and in chemical synthesis. As defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this specific chemical compound, a saturated acyclic ketone, is precisely identified by its chemical structure and name. It is a key industrial solvent for gums, resins, paints, varnishes, and nitrocellulose, and also finds application in the extraction of various substances.
What falls outside HS 291413?
The following products are excluded from HS 291413: other ketones, even if structurally similar or used for similar purposes. For instance, other saturated acyclic ketones like acetone (propan-2-one) or butanone (methyl ethyl ketone, MEK) are classified under HS 2914.11 and HS 2914.12 respectively, as they are distinct chemical compounds. Cyclic ketones, such as cyclohexanone, fall under HS 2914.22. Mixtures containing MIBK, where MIBK is not the predominant component by weight or does not impart the essential character, would typically be classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 38 if they are prepared solvents not elsewhere specified or included.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291413?
A common error is misclassifying other ketones as MIBK due to similar applications or generic naming conventions. For example, confusing methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) with methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) is a frequent mistake, despite their distinct chemical structures and separate HS codes (2914.12 vs. 2914.13). Another error involves classifying mixtures containing MIBK under this subheading when MIBK is not the sole or essential character-imparting component, which would violate General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b). Importers must ensure the chemical name and CAS number precisely match "4-Methylpentan-2-one" to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 291413?
The correct procedure for classifying products as 4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone) involves verifying the precise chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name, CAS number (108-10-1), and purity. This documentation is crucial to confirm it is indeed 4-Methylpentan-2-one and not another ketone or a mixture. Classification must adhere strictly to the WCO HS Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 29, Heading 2914, and Subheading 2914.13, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for 4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone) under HS 2914.13 in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2914.13, '4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone)', vary by importing country. For example, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 4.0% ad valorem, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) General Note 3(b). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 4% ad valorem duty for goods originating from countries without a preferential trade agreement. Importers should always verify the current rates with the official customs tariff of the destination country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2914.13, and which trade agreements commonly offer them?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2914.13 under various trade agreements and preference programs. In the United States, for instance, methyl isobutyl ketone may enter duty-free if originating from countries party to agreements such as the USMCA (Mexico, Canada), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica), KORUS (Korea), and other FTAs. Specific preference programs like the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) or ATPA (Andean Trade Preference Act) may also apply depending on the country of origin and current program status. Importers must ensure they meet the specific Rules of Origin requirements of the applicable trade agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. Always consult the specific trade agreement text and the importing country's customs regulations for precise eligibility criteria.
What are the key classification criteria for 4-Methylpentan-2-one under HS 2914.13, and what distinguishes it from other ketones?
4-Methylpentan-2-one, commonly known as methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), is classified under HS 2914.13. The primary classification criterion is its specific chemical structure as an acyclic ketone, specifically a methyl ketone. Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System covers 'Organic chemicals,' and Heading 2914 is dedicated to 'Ketones and quinones, whether or not with other oxygen function, and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' Subheading 2914.13 specifically identifies '4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone).' This precise sub-heading ensures clear distinction from other acyclic ketones like acetone (2914.11) or butanone (2914.12) based on their unique molecular formulas and structures. Customs authorities rely on chemical nomenclature, CAS numbers, and purity specifications to confirm correct classification. Importers should provide technical data sheets or Certificates of Analysis to support the classification.
What documentation is typically required by customs for importing HS 2914.13?
For the importation of 4-Methylpentan-2-one (methyl isobutyl ketone) under HS 2914.13, standard customs documentation is required. This typically includes a Commercial Invoice detailing the goods, value, and parties involved; a Packing List; and a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill. To ensure accurate classification and compliance, importers should also be prepared to provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or product specification sheet confirming the chemical identity, purity, and CAS number (108-10-1 for MIBK). If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate) is mandatory. Depending on the country and end-use, additional permits or declarations related to chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU) might be necessary, though MIBK is generally a widely used industrial chemical.