HS 291720 Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives
Quick Answer: HS code 291720 covers a specific group of organic chemical compounds: polycarboxylic acids derived from cyclic structures (cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic), along with their various chemical derivatives such as anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids. These are typically used as intermediates in the production of polymers, resins, and other specialty chemicals. For importers, standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally 6.0% ad valorem in the UK and EU. In the US, the MFN rate is 4.2% ad valorem, with many products eligible for duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A+, AU, BH, CL, KR, SG). Importers should verify specific product eligibility for preferential rates to optimize landed costs. Exporters should ensure accurate chemical nomenclature for classification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200040 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200030 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917200030 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200040 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 2917200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2917200000 | 4.2% | Free (19 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 2917.20?
Imports of Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic 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, and 17 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 291720 cover?
This subheading covers cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids, and their derivatives. These are organic chemical compounds characterized by having two or more carboxyl groups (-COOH) attached to a cyclic hydrocarbon structure, which can be saturated (cyclanic), unsaturated (cyclenic), or derived from terpenes (cycloterpenic). Examples include cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid and its various derivatives. The scope is precisely defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and further detailed in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, ensuring consistent global application for these specific chemical structures.
What falls outside HS 291720?
The following products are excluded from HS 291720: monocarboxylic acids of similar cyclic structures, which are classified under HS 2916. For instance, cyclohexanecarboxylic acid, having only one carboxyl group, would be classified under HS 2916, not HS 291720. Additionally, aromatic polycarboxylic acids, such as phthalic acid or terephthalic acid, are specifically covered under HS 29173x, as their cyclic structure is aromatic rather than cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic. Polymers derived from these acids, even if they retain some characteristics of the original monomer, are generally classified in Chapter 39, as their primary identity shifts to that of a plastic material.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291720?
A common error is misclassifying aromatic polycarboxylic acids as cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic polycarboxylic acids. For example, isophthalic acid, which is an aromatic dicarboxylic acid, is frequently but incorrectly placed in HS 291720 instead of its correct subheading, HS 291739. This mistake often arises from a failure to precisely distinguish between aromatic and non-aromatic cyclic structures, a critical distinction for Heading 2917. Importers must 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 is accurately identified before assigning the HS code.
How should importers classify products under HS 291720?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291720 involves a meticulous review of the chemical structure and functional groups. Importers and customs brokers should first confirm that the substance is a polycarboxylic acid (or one of its specified derivatives) and that its cyclic structure is definitively cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic, rather than aromatic. Consulting the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and associated chemical name can provide crucial verification. Furthermore, cross-referencing with the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, published by the WCO, and official national tariff databases like the HTSUS or EU TARIC, is essential to ensure compliance and avoid misclassification, thereby preventing potential duties and penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2917.20 in major markets?
For products classified under HS 2917.20, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates can vary by importing country. Based on common tariff schedules, typical MFN rates observed are 6.0% ad valorem in many jurisdictions. For example, the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) for 2917.20.00 generally applies a 4.2% ad valorem duty rate for products from non-preferential countries. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the precise and current MFN rate applicable at the time of importation.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2917.20, and which trade agreements commonly offer them?
Yes, significant preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for products under HS 2917.20 when originating from countries with which the importing nation has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential trade programs. For instance, in the U.S., goods originating from countries 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 qualify for duty-free entry under various FTAs. Other programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or specific regional agreements (e.g., AGOA, CBTPA) could also offer reduced or free duties for eligible developing countries. Importers must ensure the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the applicable trade agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2917.20, specifically 'Cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids and their derivatives'?
The primary classification criteria for HS 2917.20 revolve around the chemical structure and functional groups of the organic compound. For a product to be classified here, it must be a polycarboxylic acid (meaning it contains more than one carboxyl group -COOH) and its core structure must be cyclanic (saturated rings), cyclenic (unsaturated rings), or cycloterpenic. This heading also includes the direct derivatives of these acids, such as their anhydrides, halides (e.g., acid chlorides), peroxides, and peroxyacids. It is crucial to verify the exact chemical name, CAS number, and molecular structure against the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (ENs) for Chapter 29 to ensure accurate classification. For example, cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylic acid would typically fall under this heading.
What specific documentation is required for importing chemicals under HS 2917.20, beyond standard customs documents?
Beyond standard commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, importing chemicals under HS 2917.20 may require additional documentation due to their chemical nature. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS), formerly Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is often required by customs authorities to assess potential hazards and ensure compliance with chemical regulations (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU). A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) may also be requested to confirm the purity, composition, and specifications of the chemical. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin is mandatory. Depending on the specific chemical and its intended use, other permits or licenses from regulatory bodies (e.g., environmental protection agencies, health authorities) might be necessary, particularly for new chemical substances or those with restricted uses.
Are there any specific import restrictions or regulatory considerations for certain chemicals within HS 2917.20?
While HS 2917.20 covers a broad range of organic chemicals, specific substances within this heading may be subject to import restrictions or heightened regulatory scrutiny. For example, certain isomers or derivatives could be precursors for controlled substances, requiring specific permits or declarations under international conventions like the UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. Additionally, some chemicals might be subject to environmental regulations concerning persistent organic pollutants (POPs) or hazardous waste. Importers should consult the relevant national chemical inventories (e.g., TSCA Inventory in the U.S., EINECS/ELINCS in the EU) and regulatory agencies to determine if their specific product requires pre-market notification, registration, or is subject to any import bans or quotas. It is always advisable to verify the specific CAS number of the chemical against national regulatory lists.