HS 291711 Acyclic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives
Quick Answer: HS code 291711 covers oxalic acid, a dicarboxylic acid, and its salts and esters. This chemical compound is primarily used in cleaning agents, rust removers, and as a reducing agent in various industrial applications. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the standard Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem. The EU applies a slightly higher MFN rate of 6.50% ad valorem. For the US, the MFN rate is 3.1% ad valorem, though many countries benefit from duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or preferential programs. Conversely, goods from non-MFN countries may face a prohibitive 34.5% ad valorem rate. Accurate classification is crucial to leverage preferential tariffs and avoid penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917110000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917110030 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917110091 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917110020 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917110040 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917110000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2917110020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2917110030 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2917110040 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2917110091 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917110000 | 3.1% | 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 2917.11?
Imports of Acyclic polycarboxylic 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 291711 cover?
This subheading covers oxalic acid, a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula (COOH)₂. It is the simplest dicarboxylic acid and is characterized by its acyclic structure. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (ENs) for Heading 2917, this subheading specifically identifies oxalic acid, its salts, and esters. It is widely used in various industrial applications, including cleaning agents, rust removers, and as a mordant in dyeing processes. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this WCO definition, ensuring consistent global classification for this specific chemical compound and its direct derivatives.
What falls outside HS 291711?
The following products are excluded from HS 291711: other acyclic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives, which are classified in other subheadings under Heading 2917. For instance, malonic acid (HS 291719.10) and succinic acid (HS 291719.20) are distinct acyclic dicarboxylic acids that, while structurally similar, possess different chemical formulas and are explicitly enumerated elsewhere. Additionally, cyclic polycarboxylic acids, such as phthalic anhydride (HS 291735), are excluded from the entire acyclic polycarboxylic acid category and are classified under different subheadings within Heading 2917 or other relevant chapters if they are polymers or mixtures.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291711?
A common error is misclassifying other acyclic dicarboxylic acids as oxalic acid, particularly when dealing with mixtures or less common derivatives. Importers sometimes incorrectly assume that any simple acyclic dicarboxylic acid falls under 291711, overlooking the specific enumeration of oxalic acid. This often 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. Furthermore, failing to distinguish between pure oxalic acid and its salts or esters, which are also covered, versus other derivatives that might fall into broader "other" categories within 291719, can lead to incorrect duty rates and compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 291711?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291711 involves first confirming the chemical identity of the product as oxalic acid, its salts, or esters. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to verify the chemical name and CAS number. Cross-referencing this information with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2917 and specific national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is crucial. If the product is indeed oxalic acid or its direct derivatives as defined, then 291711 is the appropriate classification. For any other acyclic polycarboxylic acid, a detailed review of subheadings 291712 through 291719 is necessary to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for products classified under HS 2917.11 in the United States?
For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2917.11, which covers 'Acyclic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives,' the current Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate in the United States is 3.1% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries that do not have a specific free trade agreement or other preferential trade program with the U.S., or for which the importer does not claim such a preference. Importers should always verify the current rates via the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for the most up-to-date information.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for HS 2917.11 when importing into the United States?
Several U.S. free trade agreements and preferential programs provide duty-free treatment for goods classified under HS 2917.11, provided all rules of origin and other program requirements are met. Notable examples include 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). Additionally, certain developing countries may qualify for duty-free entry under programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), though specific product exclusions may apply. Importers must ensure they possess valid certificates of origin or other required documentation to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for acyclic polycarboxylic acids and their derivatives under HS 2917.11?
HS 2917.11 specifically covers 'Acyclic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives.' The primary classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure: the acid must be acyclic (i.e., not containing a ring structure) and possess more than one carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH). Derivatives such as anhydrides, halides (e.g., acid chlorides), peroxides, and peroxyacids of these acyclic polycarboxylic acids are also included. Accurate chemical nomenclature and structural analysis are crucial for correct classification, often requiring a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or detailed chemical specifications from the manufacturer. Misclassification can lead to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties.
Are there any specific documentation requirements for importing chemicals under HS 2917.11, beyond standard customs entry documents?
Beyond standard customs entry documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of chemicals under HS 2917.11 may require additional documentation. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is typically mandatory for chemical products to comply with hazard communication standards and may be requested by customs or other regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA in the U.S.). A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is highly recommended to confirm the chemical identity, purity, and specifications, which aids in accurate HS classification and demonstrates compliance with product standards. For preferential duty claims, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, KORUS FTA Certificate) is essential.