HS 291533 n-Butyl acetate
Quick Answer: HS code 291533 specifically covers n-Butyl acetate, a colorless, flammable liquid primarily used as a solvent in the production of lacquers, paints, and coatings, as well as in the manufacture of artificial leathers and perfumes. It is also found in some food flavorings. For importers, the duty rates vary by destination: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50%. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 5.5% ad valorem, but significant preferential duty treatment (Free) is available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for goods originating from countries such as Australia, Korea, and Mexico. Importers should verify origin to leverage these preferential rates. Conversely, a prohibitive 40% duty applies to products from non-market economy countries.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915330000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915330000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915330000 | 5.5% | 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 2915.33?
Imports of n-Butyl acetate 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291533 cover?
This subheading covers n-butyl acetate, a colorless, flammable liquid with a fruity odor, primarily used as a solvent in the production of lacquers, enamels, and other coatings. 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, HS 2915.33 specifically identifies the normal isomer of butyl acetate. It is an ester of acetic acid and n-butanol, falling under Heading 2915 which encompasses saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.
What falls outside HS 291533?
The following products are excluded from HS 291533: isomers of butyl acetate other than n-butyl acetate, such as isobutyl acetate (HS 2915.39.10) or tert-butyl acetate (HS 2915.39.90), which are classified under other subheadings within 2915.39 as "other" butyl acetates. Additionally, mixtures containing n-butyl acetate, where the n-butyl acetate is not the predominant component by weight or where the mixture has a different essential character, would typically be classified elsewhere, potentially under Chapter 38 if they are prepared solvents or thinners, or under other headings based on their composition and use, as per General Interpretative Rule 3(b).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291533?
A common error is misclassifying other isomers of butyl acetate, such as isobutyl acetate or tert-butyl acetate, under HS 291533. Importers sometimes overlook the "n-" prefix, assuming all butyl acetates belong here. This mistake violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. The specific designation "n-Butyl acetate" in 291533 strictly limits its scope to the normal isomer, requiring other isomers to be classified under the residual subheading 2915.39 for "other" butyl acetates, leading to potential duty discrepancies and compliance issues if not correctly identified.
How should importers classify products under HS 291533?
The correct procedure for classifying n-butyl acetate involves verifying the chemical's precise isomer. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, explicitly confirming the product is n-butyl acetate and not an isomer like isobutyl acetate. This documentation is crucial for demonstrating compliance with GRI 1. Once confirmed, the product should be declared under HS 291533. For the United States, the full HTSUS subheading is 2915.33.00.00, incurring a 3.7% ad valorem duty rate. In the EU, the TARIC code is 2915330000, with a 5.5% ad valorem duty rate for most MFN countries. For the UK, the Trade Tariff code is 2915330000, also with a 5.5% ad valorem duty rate. Accurate documentation prevents delays and penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for n-Butyl acetate (HS 2915.33) in major markets, and how can I determine if my imports qualify for preferential treatment?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for n-Butyl acetate (HS 2915.33) can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States generally applies a 4.0% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs duty of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem rate. However, many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often 'Free'. For instance, imports into the US from countries like 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) may qualify for duty-free entry under respective Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). To claim preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin criteria specified in the relevant trade agreement and possess valid origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin or origin declaration. Always consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) and the specific FTA text to confirm eligibility and documentation requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for n-Butyl acetate under HS 2915.33, and what common errors should importers avoid?
n-Butyl acetate is classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2915.33. This subheading specifically covers 'Esters of acetic acid: n-Butyl acetate'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. It must be a pure or commercially pure n-butyl acetate. Importers should ensure that the product's chemical name, CAS number (123-86-4), and chemical formula (C6H12O2) align with this description. Common classification errors include misclassifying mixtures containing n-butyl acetate under this heading if the n-butyl acetate is not the predominant component or if the mixture has a specific function that would lead to classification elsewhere (e.g., as a prepared solvent). It is crucial to have accurate chemical analysis reports, safety data sheets (SDS), and product specifications to support the classification. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide further guidance on the classification of organic chemicals.
Are there any specific import documentation requirements or regulatory considerations for n-Butyl acetate (HS 2915.33) beyond standard customs declarations?
Beyond standard commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, n-Butyl acetate (HS 2915.33) may be subject to additional regulatory requirements due to its chemical nature. As a chemical substance, importers should be prepared to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to customs authorities, which details its properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures. Depending on the importing country, it may also be subject to chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU, UK REACH in the UK). These regulations might require pre-market notification, registration, or specific labeling. While n-Butyl acetate is not typically a controlled substance for narcotics or precursor purposes, its flammability (flash point around 22°C) means it is classified as dangerous goods for transport, requiring proper packaging, labeling, and documentation (e.g., UN number 1123, Class 3 Flammable Liquid) according to IMDG Code for sea, IATA DGR for air, or ADR for road transport. Importers should verify all national chemical and environmental regulations applicable in the destination country.
How do major trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU-Japan EPA, specifically impact the import of n-Butyl acetate (HS 2915.33)?
Major trade agreements significantly impact the import of n-Butyl acetate by often reducing or eliminating MFN duty rates, provided the product meets the agreement's rules of origin. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), n-Butyl acetate originating from Mexico or Canada would generally be eligible for duty-free treatment when imported into the US, subject to meeting the specific rules of origin for Chapter 29 chemicals. Similarly, the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) would allow for duty-free import of n-Butyl acetate between the EU and Japan, provided the origin requirements are met. These agreements typically specify a change in tariff classification (CTC) or a regional value content (RVC) rule. For chemicals like n-Butyl acetate, the rule often requires a change to heading 29.15 from any other heading, or from a non-originating material. Importers should consult the specific origin rules within the text of the relevant trade agreement to ensure compliance and proper documentation for claiming preferential duties.