HS 291461 Quinones
Quick Answer: HS 2914.61 covers specific quinones, which are organic chemical compounds characterized by a cyclic diketone structure, primarily used as intermediates in the synthesis of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and other fine chemicals. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the precise chemical identity is crucial for accurate classification. Duty rates vary significantly by jurisdiction: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. In the United States, the duty rate is complex, often "Free" for certain quinones, but can also be 15.4¢/kg + 42% ad valorem, depending on the specific product and applicable trade agreements. Importers should verify the exact chemical name and CAS number against relevant tariff schedules to ensure correct duty assessment and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914610000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914610000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2914610000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291461 cover?
This subheading covers 9,10-anthraquinone, a specific organic chemical compound belonging to the quinone functional group. 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. 9,10-anthraquinone is a yellow crystalline solid, often used as a precursor in the production of dyes, particularly anthraquinone dyes, and in the pulp and paper industry as a pulping additive. Its chemical structure is characterized by two carbonyl groups on an anthracene backbone, making it a diketone and a quinone.
What falls outside HS 291461?
The following products are excluded from HS 291461: other quinones, which are classified under HS 2914.69. For example, benzoquinone (p-benzoquinone) and naphthoquinone (1,4-naphthoquinone) are distinct quinone compounds that do not possess the specific 9,10-anthraquinone structure and therefore fall under the residual subheading 2914.69. Similarly, derivatives of 9,10-anthraquinone, such as hydroxylated or halogenated anthraquinones, are generally classified under HS 2914.79 as "Halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives of quinones," provided they meet the criteria for those specific derivative types, rather than the parent compound itself.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291461?
A common error is misclassifying other quinone compounds, or even derivatives of anthraquinone, as 9,10-anthraquinone. Importers might incorrectly assume that any product with "anthraquinone" in its name or a quinone functional group belongs here. However, HS 2914.61 is specifically reserved for the unsubstituted 9,10-anthraquinone. Misclassification often arises from a failure to apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Detailed chemical analysis or precise product specifications are crucial to distinguish 9,10-anthraquinone from other quinones or its derivatives, which have their own specific subheadings.
How should importers classify products under HS 291461?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291461 involves a rigorous review of the chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the product is unequivocally 9,10-anthraquinone, and not another quinone or a derivative. This requires obtaining a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) that clearly states the chemical name, CAS number (e.g., 84-65-1 for 9,10-anthraquinone), and chemical structure. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and Heading 2914, along with official tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC, is essential to confirm the specific scope of "9,10-anthraquinone" and avoid misclassifying related but distinct chemical compounds.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2914.61 (Quinones) in major markets, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN import duty rates for HS 2914.61 (Quinones) can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the general MFN duty rate for 2914.61.00.00 is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union's TARIC, the MFN duty rate for this heading is typically 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem duty for 2914.61.00.00. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country using the official tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) as rates can be subject to change or specific subheadings.
How do trade agreements impact the duty rates for quinones under HS 2914.61, and what preferential programs might apply?
Trade agreements frequently offer preferential duty treatment for products classified under HS 2914.61. For instance, quinones originating from countries party to agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), various EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), or the UK's FTAs may qualify for reduced or duty-free entry. For example, under USMCA, quinones originating in Mexico or Canada and meeting the rules of origin would typically be duty-free when imported into the United States. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs that could grant preferential rates. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement's rules of origin and ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment. The duty rate could be 'Free' under such agreements, significantly reducing import costs.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring a product is correctly classified under HS 2914.61 as a 'quinone'?
The correct classification under HS 2914.61 hinges on the chemical structure and function of the compound. This heading specifically covers 'Quinones,' which are cyclic organic compounds containing a quinone structure. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (ENs) for Chapter 29, this heading includes specific quinones such as anthraquinone (the most common example), benzoquinone, naphthoquinone, and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. The primary criterion is the presence of the quinone ring system. Importers should provide detailed chemical specifications, including the CAS number, chemical name, and structural formula, to their customs broker or classification specialist to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties for misclassification.
Are there any specific documentation requirements, beyond standard customs declarations, for importing quinones under HS 2914.61, particularly concerning chemical regulations or safety?
Beyond standard import documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), importers of quinones under HS 2914.61 may face additional requirements due to the chemical nature of these products. Depending on the specific quinone and the importing country's regulations, these could include: Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to comply with chemical safety regulations (e.g., OSHA in the US, REACH in the EU). Compliance with chemical inventory reporting (e.g., TSCA in the US, national chemical inventories). Pre-market notification or registration for new chemical substances. While HS 2914.61 itself doesn't mandate unique customs documents, the underlying chemical regulations are crucial. Importers should consult with regulatory affairs specialists and their customs broker to ensure compliance with all applicable chemical control laws in the destination country.