HS 291524 Acetic anhydride
Quick Answer: HS Code 2915.24 covers Acetic Anhydride, a crucial chemical compound used primarily in the production of cellulose acetate (for films and fibers), aspirin, and various other pharmaceuticals, dyes, and plastics. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally 4.00% ad valorem. The EU applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. For the US, the MFN rate is 3.5% ad valorem, though many countries benefit from preferential "Free" duty rates under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., Australia, Korea, Singapore). Understanding these specific rates and potential preferential treatments is essential for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915240000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2915240010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2915240090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915240010 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915240090 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915240000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915240000 | 3.5% | 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 2915.24?
Imports of Acetic anhydride 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 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291524 cover?
This subheading covers acetic anhydride, a chemical compound with the formula (CH3CO)2O. It is the acid anhydride of acetic acid and is primarily used as a reagent in organic synthesis. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2915 specifically identify "Acetic anhydride" under subheading 2915.24, confirming its classification as an acyclic monocarboxylic acid anhydride. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, consistently list this specific chemical compound under HS 2915.24. Importers should ensure the product's chemical identity precisely matches acetic anhydride, verifying purity and composition through laboratory analysis if necessary.
What falls outside HS 291524?
The following products are excluded from HS 291524: acetic acid itself (classified under 2915.21), which is the parent acid from which acetic anhydride is derived. Other anhydrides of acyclic monocarboxylic acids, such as propionic anhydride or butyric anhydride, are also excluded and would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2915, specifically 2915.90. Mixtures containing acetic anhydride but formulated for specific end-uses, such as certain chemical preparations, might be classified elsewhere if the anhydride is not the predominant component or if the mixture constitutes a distinct article. For instance, pharmaceutical preparations containing acetic anhydride as an ingredient would typically fall under Chapter 30.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291524?
A common error is misclassifying acetic acid as acetic anhydride, or vice versa, due to their chemical relationship. Importers must carefully distinguish between the acid and its anhydride form, as they have different chemical structures and uses, leading to distinct HS codes (2915.21 for acetic acid). Another mistake involves classifying mixtures where acetic anhydride is present but not the primary constituent, potentially overlooking General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) if the mixture's essential character is imparted by another component. Furthermore, failing to verify the chemical purity and precise identity of the substance can lead to incorrect classification, especially if the product is a technical grade or contains significant impurities.
How should importers classify products under HS 291524?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291524 involves several key steps. First, importers or customs brokers must confirm the chemical identity of the product as pure acetic anhydride, using chemical analysis reports, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and manufacturer specifications. These documents should explicitly state the chemical name, CAS number (108-24-7 for acetic anhydride), and chemical formula. Second, consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2915 to ensure the product aligns with the detailed description for "Acetic anhydride." Finally, cross-reference with the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to confirm the 8-digit or 10-digit subheading, paying close attention to any national statistical suffixes or additional duties. This meticulous approach minimizes classification errors and ensures compliance.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) varies by importing country. For example, the United States applies an MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.50% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always verify the current MFN rate with the specific customs authority of the importing country or through official tariff databases like the USITC Tariff Database, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) under free trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) when imported under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. For instance, the United States offers duty-free treatment for imports originating from 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) under their respective FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK have numerous agreements that may grant preferential access. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation (e.g., a Certificate of Origin) to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Acetic Anhydride under HS 2915.24?
Acetic Anhydride is classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2915.24 based on its chemical identity as an anhydride of acetic acid. HS Chapter 29 covers 'Organic chemicals,' and heading 2915 specifically includes 'Saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' Subheading 2915.24 is dedicated solely to 'Acetic anhydride.' The classification is straightforward as long as the product is chemically pure acetic anhydride. Any mixtures or derivatives would require careful review against other subheadings within Chapter 29 or other relevant chapters, following the General Interpretative Rules (GIRs) of the HS.
What documentation is typically required for importing Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24)?
Standard import documentation for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. To claim preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or specific FTA certificate) is essential. Additionally, as Acetic Anhydride is a chemical, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) is often required by regulatory bodies for safety and environmental compliance, and may be requested by customs or port authorities. Depending on the country, specific chemical import licenses or permits might also be necessary due to its potential use in controlled substances, although this is less common for acetic anhydride itself compared to certain precursors.
Are there any specific trade compliance considerations or restrictions for Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24)?
While Acetic Anhydride (HS 2915.24) is a widely used industrial chemical, importers should be aware of potential dual-use regulations or precursor chemical controls in certain jurisdictions. Although not typically a highly controlled substance itself, its use as a precursor in the illicit manufacture of certain narcotics (e.g., heroin) means some countries may monitor its trade. Importers should verify if the destination country has any specific reporting requirements, end-use statements, or licensing for acetic anhydride, especially for larger quantities. Always consult national chemical control lists and export/import regulations for both the exporting and importing countries to ensure full compliance.