HS 291611 Unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives

Quick Answer: HS code 291611 covers unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their derivatives, essentially organic compounds with a carbon-carbon double bond and a single carboxylic acid group, along with their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids. Common examples include acrylic acid and methacrylic acid, widely used in polymers, resins, and coatings. For importers, duty rates vary significantly: the UK applies a 6.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 6.50% ad valorem. The US general rate is 4.2% ad valorem, but many countries benefit from duty-free treatment under various trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL, KR), making origin crucial. Importers should verify specific product classifications and applicable preferential tariffs to optimize costs and ensure compliance with WCO General Interpretative Rules.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2916110000 6.00 % — —
2916110010 6.00 % — —
2916110090 6.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2916110000 6.50 % — —
2916110010 6.50 % — —
2916110090 6.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2916110000 4.2% 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 2916.11?

Imports of Unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives 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 to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 291611 cover?

This subheading covers acrylic acid and its salts, which are unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids. Specifically, it encompasses the chemical compound CH2=CHCOOH and its various salt forms, such as sodium acrylate or potassium acrylate. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and further defined by the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this classification is for the acid itself and its direct derivatives where the acrylic acid structure is maintained. These products are fundamental building blocks in the chemical industry, often used in the production of superabsorbent polymers, coatings, and adhesives.

What falls outside HS 291611?

The following products are excluded from HS 291611: esters of acrylic acid, such as methyl acrylate or ethyl acrylate, which are classified under HS 291612. Additionally, polymers of acrylic acid, even if derived directly from acrylic acid, are excluded and typically fall under Chapter 39 as plastics and articles thereof, for example, poly(acrylic acid) under HS 3906. Furthermore, other unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids like methacrylic acid (HS 291613) or oleic acid (HS 291615) are specifically provided for in separate subheadings, despite belonging to the broader Heading 2916. This distinction is crucial for accurate classification.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 291611?

A common error is misclassifying esters of acrylic acid, such as butyl acrylate, within HS 291611 instead of the correct subheading, HS 291612. This mistake often arises from a failure to precisely identify the chemical functional group present, overlooking the specific provision for esters. Another frequent error involves classifying polymers of acrylic acid under this subheading, which violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(a) and 6, as Chapter 39 provides more specific coverage for plastics. Importers sometimes also confuse acrylic acid with methacrylic acid, leading to incorrect classification under HS 291611 when HS 291613 is the appropriate code for methacrylic acid.

How should importers classify products under HS 291611?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291611 involves a meticulous review of the chemical name and structure, ensuring it precisely matches "acrylic acid and its salts." Importers and customs brokers should first consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2916 to understand the scope of unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids. Next, verify that the product is not an ester, polymer, or another specific acid provided for in a different subheading within Heading 2916. Always cross-reference with the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC for the most current national or regional interpretations and duty rates. If in doubt, obtaining a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority is recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 291711 HS 291631 HS 291620 HS 291811 HS 291615 HS 291612

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for products classified under HS 2916.11 in the United States?

For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2916.11, which covers 'Unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives,' the current Most Favored Nation (MFN) general duty rate for imports into the United States is 4.2% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries that do not have specific preferential trade agreements or are not subject to special trade programs. Importers should consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most up-to-date information, available on the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) website.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2916.11 under U.S. Free Trade Agreements or special programs?

Yes, significant preferential duty treatment is available for products under HS 2916.11 when originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or special trade programs. For example, imports from 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 be eligible for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Other programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) might also offer duty-free entry for eligible products from beneficiary countries. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates. Always verify specific program eligibility and rules of origin via the USITC HTSUS.

What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2916.11, particularly distinguishing it from other organic acids?

The primary classification criteria for HS 2916.11 focus on the chemical structure and functional groups of the compounds. This subheading specifically covers 'Unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives.' Key elements for classification include:

  1. Unsaturated: The presence of at least one carbon-carbon double or triple bond in the acyclic chain.
  2. Acyclic: The carbon chain must be open, not forming a ring structure.
  3. Monocarboxylic: The presence of exactly one carboxylic acid (-COOH) group.
  4. Derivatives: This includes anhydrides, halides (e.g., acyl chlorides), peroxides, and peroxyacids of the specified unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids. It is crucial to differentiate these from saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids (e.g., HS 2915) or dicarboxylic/polycarboxylic acids (e.g., HS 2917). For precise classification, a detailed chemical analysis and understanding of the product's molecular structure are essential, often referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2916.11?

Standard import documentation is required for goods under HS 2916.11, similar to most chemical imports. This typically includes:

  1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the goods, value, and parties involved.
  2. Packing List: Itemizing the contents of each package.
  3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document.
  4. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) / Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Crucial for chemical products, providing information on hazards, handling, and emergency procedures. This is often required by regulatory bodies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in the U.S.
  5. Certificate of Analysis (CoA): Verifying the chemical composition, purity, and specifications of the product.
  6. Certificate of Origin: Essential if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or special trade program. Without this, MFN rates will apply. Importers should also be aware of any potential import restrictions or specific agency requirements (e.g., EPA, FDA depending on end-use) that might apply to certain chemical substances.