HS 291539 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 291539, "Other," encompasses a diverse range of saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives, not specifically classified elsewhere under heading 2915. This typically includes various specialty organic chemicals used in pharmaceuticals, plastics, and chemical synthesis. Importers should note varying duty rates: the UK generally applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's Common Customs Tariff (CCT) typically levies 5.50%. For the US, rates are more complex, with some products facing 5.5% ad valorem, others enjoying duty-free status under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A, AU, KR), and certain specific items attracting a compound duty of 15.4¢/kg + 58%. Accurate classification within this "Other" category is crucial to avoid misdeclaration and ensure correct duty assessment, especially given the significant rate differences and potential for FTA benefits.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915390000 | — | — | — |
| 2915390015 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2915390025 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2915390033 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 2915390040 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915390015 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915390033 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915390040 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915390045 | 5.50 % | — | — |
| 2915390055 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2915392000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2915391000 | 5.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2915393100 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2915394000 | 5.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2915394510 | — | — | ["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 2915.39?
Imports of Other 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 16 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 291539 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" esters of acetic acid, specifically those not provided for in subheadings 2915.31 (ethyl acetate) or 2915.32 (vinyl acetate). According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and reflected in national tariffs like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this residual subheading encompasses a diverse range of acetic acid esters. Examples include n-butyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, n-propyl acetate, isopropyl acetate, and various other alkyl acetates, provided they are chemically defined organic compounds and not mixtures or preparations of Chapter 38.
What falls outside HS 291539?
The following products are excluded from HS 291539: ethyl acetate (classified under 2915.31.00), vinyl acetate (classified under 2915.32.00), and other esters of acetic acid that are specifically enumerated elsewhere. Furthermore, mixtures of two or more esters of acetic acid, or solutions of these esters in other solvents, are generally excluded if they constitute preparations of Chapter 38, such as certain paint removers or hydraulic brake fluids. For instance, a mixture of n-butyl acetate and another solvent, if formulated for a specific use, would likely fall under Chapter 38, not Chapter 29, due to its prepared nature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291539?
A common error is misclassifying specific acetic acid esters that have their own dedicated subheadings, such as ethyl acetate or vinyl acetate, into 2915.39. Importers sometimes overlook the specific provisions for these more common esters, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Another frequent mistake involves classifying mixtures or preparations containing acetic acid esters under 2915.39, when General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) or 3(c) would direct them to Chapter 38 as composite goods or preparations. Proper application of GRI 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 291539?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291539 involves first confirming that the product is a chemically defined ester of acetic acid. Importers and customs brokers must then verify that the specific ester is not ethyl acetate (2915.31) or vinyl acetate (2915.32). If it is neither of these, and it is not a mixture or preparation falling under Chapter 38, then 2915.39 is the appropriate residual subheading. Always consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2915 and cross-reference with the latest USITC HTS or EU TARIC nomenclature to ensure precise identification and compliance with national tariff schedules, paying close attention to the chemical name and purity of the substance.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2915.39 ('Other' esters of acetic acid)?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for products under HS 2915.39 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.5% ad valorem for this subheading. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem MFN duty. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most current and accurate MFN rates applicable to their specific origin and destination.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for goods under HS 2915.39, and what are the common preferential rates?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for goods classified under HS 2915.39, often resulting in a 'Free' (0%) duty rate, provided the goods meet the respective rules of origin. For instance, in the United States, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) 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) may enter duty-free. Similarly, the EU and UK have numerous preferential agreements. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for determining if a product falls under HS 2915.39, especially given its 'Other' designation?
HS 2915.39 is a residual subheading for 'Other' esters of acetic acid, meaning it covers esters of acetic acid that are not specifically provided for in subheadings 2915.31 (Ethyl acetate) or 2915.32 (Vinyl acetate). The primary classification criteria involve chemical identity: the product must be an ester of acetic acid. If it is an ester of acetic acid but is not ethyl acetate or vinyl acetate, it would typically fall into 2915.39. Importers should have a detailed chemical description, CAS number, and chemical formula available to support classification. In cases of doubt, a binding tariff information (BTI) ruling from the customs authority of the importing country is recommended.
Are there specific documentation requirements, beyond standard shipping documents, for importing chemicals classified under HS 2915.39?
Yes, beyond standard shipping documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing chemicals under HS 2915.39 often requires additional documentation. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is typically mandatory for chemical products to ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Depending on the specific chemical and importing country, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may also be required to verify purity and composition. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or origin declaration is essential. Importers should verify specific national requirements with their customs broker or the relevant customs authority.