HS 291620 Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives
Quick Answer: HS code 291620 encompasses a specific group of organic chemical compounds: monocarboxylic acids derived from cyclic structures (cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic), along with their various chemical derivatives such as anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids. In simpler terms, this covers a range of specialized chemicals used as intermediates in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other fine chemicals. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates. In the UK, most products under this heading face a 6.00% ad valorem duty. The EU generally applies a 6.50% ad valorem rate. The US tariff schedule shows more variation, with some products entering duty-free, others at 3.7% ad valorem, and specific items, like certain esters, subject to a 25% ad valorem rate (e.g., under subheading 2916.20.50). Due to this disparity, careful classification to the 8-digit or 10-digit level is crucial to determine the exact applicable duty and ensure trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2916200015 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2916200055 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2916200065 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2916200000 | — | — | — |
| 2916200025 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2916200015 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2916200025 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2916200055 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2916200060 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2916200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 291620 | — | — | — |
| 2916201000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 2916205000 | 3.7% | Free (18 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 2916.20?
Imports of Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic 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, GSP, 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 291620 cover?
This subheading covers cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives. These are organic chemical compounds characterized by a single carboxyl group (-COOH) attached to a cyclic hydrocarbon structure, which can be saturated (cyclanic), contain double bonds (cyclenic), or be derived from terpenes (cycloterpenic). Examples include naphthenic acids and cyclohexanecarboxylic acid. The scope is defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and further elaborated in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring consistent application for customs purposes.
What falls outside HS 291620?
The following products are excluded from HS 291620: polycarboxylic acids, which possess more than one carboxyl group, are classified elsewhere, typically within other subheadings of Heading 2916 (e.g., 2916.90 for other acyclic polycarboxylic acids). Aromatic monocarboxylic acids, such as benzoic acid, are specifically covered under HS 2916.31, as their ring structure is aromatic rather than cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic. Similarly, derivatives not explicitly mentioned, such as esters of these acids, are generally classified under HS 2918.99, unless they are specifically provided for elsewhere in Chapter 29, highlighting the importance of precise chemical nomenclature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291620?
A common error is misclassifying aromatic monocarboxylic acids or their derivatives under HS 291620, failing to distinguish between cyclanic/cyclenic/cycloterpenic rings and aromatic rings. For instance, benzoic acid, despite being a monocarboxylic acid, is specifically classified under HS 2916.31 due to its aromatic benzene ring. Another mistake involves overlooking the "mono-" prefix, leading to the incorrect inclusion of polycarboxylic acids. Importers must carefully 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, ensuring the chemical structure precisely matches the subheading description.
How should importers classify products under HS 291620?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291620 involves a meticulous review of the chemical structure and functional groups. Importers and customs brokers should first confirm the presence of a single carboxyl group and a cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic ring system, excluding aromatic rings. Obtain the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and the full chemical name, cross-referencing these with official tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC to identify any specific legal notes or rulings. If uncertainty persists, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK) to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties or delays.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2916.20 in major trading blocs?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2916.20, covering 'Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives,' vary by country or customs union. For example, the United States applies a general MFN (Normal Trade Relations - NTR) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also applies a general MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their country of import via the official customs tariff publications (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2916.20, and how does it differ from related headings?
HS 2916.20 specifically covers monocarboxylic acids that are cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic, along with their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and derivatives. The critical classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure: the presence of a single carboxyl group (-COOH) and a cyclic hydrocarbon ring (saturated, unsaturated, or terpenic). It is crucial to distinguish this from dicarboxylic acids (e.g., HS 2917) or aromatic monocarboxylic acids (HS 2916.3X), which fall under different subheadings. For instance, benzoic acid is an aromatic monocarboxylic acid and is classified under HS 2916.31. Accurate chemical analysis and understanding of the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 are essential for correct classification, ensuring the 'monocarboxylic' and 'cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic' nature is confirmed.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2916.20 under common free trade agreements (FTAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, may be available for HS 2916.20 depending on the country of origin and the specific trade agreement in force. For example, under various US Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) such as NAFTA/USMCA, CAFTA-DR, or agreements with Australia, Chile, and Korea, goods originating from these partner countries may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, the EU and UK have extensive networks of FTAs (e.g., with Canada, Japan, South Korea) and GSP schemes that can reduce or eliminate duties for eligible products from beneficiary countries. Importers must ensure that their goods meet the specific Rules of Origin (ROO) requirements of the respective agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment. Failure to meet ROO will result in the application of MFN rates.
What documentation is typically required for the import of goods under HS 2916.20, and are there any specific regulatory considerations?
Standard import documentation for HS 2916.20 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. For claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, Form A, or a self-certification statement depending on the agreement) is mandatory. Due to the chemical nature of these products, additional regulatory considerations may apply. Importers should be aware of potential requirements under chemical control regulations such as the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the US, REACH in the EU, or similar regulations in other jurisdictions. This may necessitate Safety Data Sheets (SDS), pre-manufacture notices, or registration numbers. It is critical for importers to consult with their customs broker and the relevant national chemical regulatory authorities to ensure full compliance before importation.