HS 291910 Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate
Quick Answer: HS code 291910 specifically covers Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, commonly known as TDBPP. This chemical compound is a brominated flame retardant, historically used in plastics, textiles, and polyurethane foams to inhibit combustion. Due to environmental and health concerns, its use is now highly restricted or banned in many regions. Importers and exporters should be aware of varying duty rates and regulatory statuses. The UK Trade Tariff applies a 0.00% duty rate. The EU TARIC imposes a 6.50% ad valorem duty. In the US, the general duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, with numerous preferential programs offering duty-free entry (e.g., under FTAs with Australia, Korea, Mexico). A 25% duty rate may apply under specific trade measures. Beyond tariffs, strict import/export controls and outright prohibitions on TDBPP must be verified with national chemical regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) before any trade activity.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2919100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2919100000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2919100000 | 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 2919.10?
Imports of Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate 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 291910 cover?
This subheading covers Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, a specific organo-phosphorus compound. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (WCO) for Chapter 29, Heading 2919 specifically covers "Phosphoric esters and their salts; their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives." HS 291910 precisely identifies the chemical compound with the CAS number 126-72-7, which is a brominated alkyl phosphate ester. It is primarily used as a flame retardant in various materials, including plastics and textiles, due to its chemical structure incorporating both bromine and phosphorus, contributing to its fire-retardant properties as defined by both the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system.
What falls outside HS 291910?
The following products are excluded from HS 291910: other phosphoric esters that are not Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, even if they are also brominated or used as flame retardants. For example, other brominated flame retardants such as decabromodiphenyl ether (DBDPE) would be classified under Heading 2909 as ethers or under Heading 3824 as prepared binders or chemical products not elsewhere specified or included, depending on their specific chemical nature and formulation. Similarly, non-halogenated phosphoric esters, such as triethyl phosphate, would fall under other subheadings within Heading 2919, specifically 291990, as they lack the specific 2,3-dibromopropyl groups that define 291910. Mixtures containing Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate but formulated for specific end-uses might also be excluded if the character of the mixture is imparted by other components, potentially leading to classification in Chapter 38.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 291910?
A common error is misclassifying other brominated flame retardants or other phosphoric esters under HS 291910 due to a general understanding of their function rather than their precise chemical structure. Importers might incorrectly assume that any brominated phosphate flame retardant belongs here. However, General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 dictates that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Therefore, only the specific chemical Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate is covered. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures where Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate is present but not the sole or principal component, potentially leading to classification under GRI 3(b) as a mixture or under a heading for prepared chemical products in Chapter 38 if it forms a preparation.
How should importers classify products under HS 291910?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 291910 involves a precise chemical identification of the imported substance. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the product is unequivocally Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, CAS number 126-72-7. This requires reviewing the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Certificate of Analysis (CoA), and technical specifications provided by the manufacturer. If the product is a pure chemical, it will fall under HS 291910. If it is a mixture, the importer must apply GRI 3 to determine if the Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate imparts the essential character. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and Heading 2919, along with official tariff schedules like the HTSUS (USITC) or EU TARIC, is crucial to confirm the specific scope and any relevant legal notes. For the United States, the current Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 2919100000 is 3.7% ad valorem, as per the HTSUS. For the EU, the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem, as per TARIC. For the UK, the MFN duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem, as per the UK Trade Tariff.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 291910 (Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate) when importing into the United States?
As per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the MFN (General) duty rate for HS code 291910.00.00 is 6.5% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries that do not have specific preferential trade agreements or are not subject to special duties.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (HS 291910) under U.S. Free Trade Agreements?
Yes, imports of Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate under HS 291910 may qualify for preferential duty treatment, often 'Free' (0.00% ad valorem), if originating from countries with which the U.S. has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Examples of such countries, as indicated by the 'Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,K,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)' notation, include Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, Korea, Morocco, Oman, Panama, Peru, and Singapore, among others. Importers must ensure compliance with the specific Rules of Origin for the respective FTA to claim preferential tariffs.
What are the key classification criteria for Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate under HS 291910?
HS code 291910 specifically covers 'Phosphoric esters and their salts, including their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives.' Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate is a halogenated phosphoric ester, fitting precisely into this subheading. The classification hinges on its chemical structure as an ester of phosphoric acid and the presence of halogen (bromine) atoms. Importers should ensure the product's chemical name, CAS number (e.g., 126-72-7), and chemical structure precisely match the description for accurate classification.
What documentation is typically required to import goods classified under HS 291910?
Standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. For chemical products like Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate, additional documentation may be critical: a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm chemical composition and purity, and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazard communication. If claiming preferential duty rates under an FTA, a Certificate of Origin (or equivalent declaration) is mandatory to substantiate the product's originating status.
Are there any specific import restrictions or regulatory considerations for Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (HS 291910) due to its chemical nature?
While HS 291910 itself doesn't inherently imply restrictions, Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TDBPP) is a chemical of concern due to its historical use as a flame retardant and its classification as a probable human carcinogen. Many jurisdictions, including the EU and certain U.S. states, have restricted or banned its use in specific products (e.g., children's products, textiles). Importers should verify compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations (e.g., EPA, REACH in the EU, TSCA in the U.S.) relevant to the intended use and destination country. This may involve specific labeling, reporting, or even outright prohibitions depending on the application.