HS 291632 Benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride
Quick Answer: HS code 291632 covers benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride, two distinct organic chemicals. Benzoyl peroxide is primarily used as a medication for acne and as a bleaching agent, while benzoyl chloride is a key intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and dyes. For importers and exporters, understanding the specific application is crucial for compliance. Duty rates vary significantly: the UK applies a 6.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU's TARIC system shows 6.50% ad valorem. In the US, duties can range from Free for eligible preferential trade agreements (e.g., under A+, AU, CL, KR) to 6.5% ad valorem, or even 15.4¢/kg + 57% ad valorem for certain non-preferential origins, highlighting the importance of origin determination. Importers should verify specific product classifications and applicable trade agreements to optimize duty costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2916320000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2916320000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2916321000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 291632 | — | — | — |
| 2916322000 | 6.5% | 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 2916.32?
Imports of Benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291632 cover?
This subheading covers two specific chemical compounds: benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride, as defined within Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. Benzoyl peroxide (C14H10O4) is an organic peroxide primarily used as a bleaching agent, a polymerization initiator, and in acne treatments. Benzoyl chloride (C7H5ClO) is an acyl chloride, a reactive derivative of benzoic acid, commonly employed as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and other organic chemicals. Both chemicals are precisely defined by their chemical structure and composition, falling under Heading 2916, which encompasses "Unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, cyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives." The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this WCO definition.
What falls outside HS 291632?
The following products are excluded from HS 291632: preparations containing benzoyl peroxide or benzoyl chloride where these chemicals are not in their pure or unmixed form, or where they are incorporated into mixtures, formulations, or finished articles. For instance, pharmaceutical preparations for acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide, if formulated as a cream or gel, would typically be classified under Chapter 30 (e.g., HS 3004 for medicaments). Similarly, plasticizers or other chemical mixtures where benzoyl chloride is merely an ingredient would be classified according to the nature of the mixture or the finished product, often in Chapter 38 or other relevant chapters, rather than as the pure chemical compound itself. This distinction is crucial for accurate classification.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291632?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures or preparations containing benzoyl peroxide or benzoyl chloride as the pure chemical compounds themselves. Importers frequently overlook General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), which dictates that mixtures and composite goods are classified according to the material or component that gives them their essential character. For example, a cosmetic facial wash containing benzoyl peroxide as an active ingredient should not be classified under 291632 but rather under Chapter 33 (e.g., HS 3304 for beauty or make-up preparations). Another mistake involves failing to distinguish between benzoyl chloride and other acyl chlorides or benzoic acid derivatives, which fall under different subheadings within Chapter 29 or other chapters entirely, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 291632?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291632 involves first confirming that the product is indeed pure benzoyl peroxide or benzoyl chloride, and not a mixture, preparation, or finished article. Importers and customs brokers should obtain the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number, chemical formula, and purity specifications from the manufacturer. For benzoyl peroxide, the CAS number is 94-36-0; for benzoyl chloride, it is 98-88-4. If the product is a mixture, the essential character must be determined, potentially leading to classification outside Chapter 29. Always consult the General Interpretative Rules (GRI), particularly GRI 1 for legal text and section/chapter notes, and GRI 3 for mixtures. Cross-referencing with the latest USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff notes and rulings is essential to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2916.32 (Benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride) in key markets, and how do preferential rates apply?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2916.32 vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for goods from non-preferential countries. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a standard MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.5% ad valorem MFN rate. However, many trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment, often resulting in a 'Free' rate. For the US, preferential duty-free access is available under agreements such as the USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, Korea, Morocco, Oman, Panama, Peru, Singapore), and programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries (indicated by 'A+' for LDC GSP). Importers should verify the specific country of origin and applicable trade agreement to determine eligibility for preferential rates, which typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin or equivalent documentation.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing between benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride under HS 2916.32, and what common misclassification issues arise?
HS 2916.32 specifically covers 'Benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride.' The classification hinges on the chemical identity of the product. Benzoyl peroxide (C14H10O4) is an organic peroxide, while benzoyl chloride (C7H5ClO) is an acyl halide. Both are distinct chemical compounds, and their classification under this single subheading is straightforward provided the product is one of these two. Common misclassification issues typically do not arise from confusing these two specific chemicals with each other, but rather from misidentifying them as other derivatives or mixtures. For instance, if the product is a preparation containing benzoyl peroxide but not solely benzoyl peroxide, its classification might shift to a different heading, such as 3824 (prepared binders, chemical products not elsewhere specified or included) if it's a formulated product, or even 3004 (medicaments) if it's in measured doses for therapeutic use. Importers must ensure the chemical name on commercial invoices and safety data sheets (SDS) precisely matches 'Benzoyl peroxide' or 'Benzoyl chloride' to avoid classification errors.
What specific documentation is required for the import of HS 2916.32, considering its nature as a chemical, and are there any regulatory agency requirements beyond standard customs forms?
Beyond standard customs documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, the import of chemicals like benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride under HS 2916.32 often triggers additional regulatory requirements due to their hazardous properties. Benzoyl peroxide, in particular, is classified as an organic peroxide and an oxidizer, often requiring specific handling, packaging, and transportation documentation. Importers may need to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to customs authorities, which detail the chemical's properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures. Depending on the importing country, compliance with chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU, UK REACH in the UK) may necessitate pre-market notification or registration. For instance, in the US, importers must ensure compliance with EPA regulations, and if the substance is intended for pharmaceutical use, FDA regulations apply. Customs brokers should always confirm specific national chemical import regulations and ensure all necessary permits, licenses, or declarations are in place prior to shipment arrival.
How do common trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, specifically impact the import duty rates and rules of origin for HS 2916.32?
Trade agreements significantly influence the duty rates for HS 2916.32. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), benzoyl peroxide and benzoyl chloride originating from Mexico or Canada are eligible for duty-free treatment when imported into the US, provided they meet the USMCA's specific rules of origin. The rule of origin for this heading typically requires the good to be 'wholly obtained or produced' in the territory of one or more of the Parties, or to undergo a specific change in tariff classification (e.g., a change from any other chapter, or from a different subheading within Chapter 29). Similarly, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) allows for duty-free and quota-free trade for goods originating in the EU or UK. For HS 2916.32, the TCA's rule of origin generally requires the product to be 'wholly obtained' or to undergo sufficient processing in the exporting Party to achieve a change in tariff heading or meet a value-added criterion. Importers must ensure they have valid proof of origin, such as an origin declaration or certificate, to claim these preferential rates. Failure to meet the rules of origin will result in the application of the higher MFN duty rate.