HS 292242 Glutamic acid and its salts
Quick Answer: HS code 2922.42 covers glutamic acid and its salts, primarily used as flavor enhancers (like monosodium glutamate, MSG) and in pharmaceuticals. For importers, duty rates vary significantly by destination. The UK Trade Tariff generally applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for most glutamic acid and its salts. In contrast, the EU TARIC system typically levies a 6.50% ad valorem duty. The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) shows a general duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem, but also includes "Free" rates under various preferential trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, KR) and a 25% ad valorem rate for products of China under Section 301 tariffs. Importers should verify specific product classifications and country-of-origin rules to determine the applicable duty rate and leverage potential trade preferences.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2922420000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2922420020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2922420015 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2922420090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2922420000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2922420015 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2922420020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 2922420090 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2922421000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 292242 | — | — | — |
| 2922425000 | 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 2922.42?
Imports of Glutamic acid and its salts 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 16 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 292242 cover?
This subheading covers glutamic acid and its salts, specifically L-Glutamic acid and its monosodium salt, commonly known as Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (ENs) for Heading 2922, this classification encompasses amino-acids with oxygen-functions, including those with more than one oxygen function. Glutamic acid is an alpha-amino acid with a carboxylic acid side chain, and its salts, such as MSG, are widely used as flavor enhancers. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this scope, ensuring consistent global classification for these specific chemical compounds.
What falls outside HS 292242?
The following products are excluded from HS 292242: other amino acids, even if they possess oxygen functions, which would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2922 or Chapter 29 based on their specific chemical structure. For instance, aspartic acid and its salts (HS 2922.49) or lysine and its esters and salts (HS 2922.41) are distinct and classified separately. Additionally, preparations containing glutamic acid or its salts, but formulated for specific uses such as food preparations (e.g., seasoning mixes where MSG is an ingredient but not the sole or principal component by weight), would typically fall under Chapter 21 or other relevant chapters, depending on their nature and use, rather than Chapter 29.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 292242?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures or preparations containing glutamic acid or its salts as pure chemical compounds under HS 292242. Importers sometimes overlook General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), which dictates that mixtures, composite goods, and goods put up in sets for retail sale should be classified by the material or component which gives them their essential character. For example, a seasoning blend where MSG is present but not the predominant ingredient by weight or character-imparting component should not be classified here. Another mistake is confusing other amino acids or their derivatives with glutamic acid, leading to incorrect subheading assignments within Heading 2922 or even entirely different headings.
How should importers classify products under HS 292242?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 292242 involves first confirming the chemical identity of the product as glutamic acid or one of its salts, such as monosodium glutamate, through chemical analysis or supplier documentation like Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Importers and customs brokers should verify that the product is a pure, unmixed chemical compound, not a preparation or mixture. If it is a mixture, GRI 3 must be applied to determine the essential character. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2922 and specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) is crucial to ensure alignment with official interpretations and avoid misclassification, which can lead to penalties or delays.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2922.42 (Glutamic acid and its salts) in key markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2922.42 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS) generally applies a duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem for goods classified under 2922.42.00. The European Union (EU TARIC) typically applies a duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. In contrast, some countries may offer a 0.00% MFN rate. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Global Tariff, for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Glutamic acid and its salts (HS 2922.42) under common Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)?
Yes, preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0.00% ad valorem), are available for HS 2922.42 under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and special programs, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. For imports into the United States, examples of countries whose goods may qualify for duty-free treatment include 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). Similar preferential treatment may exist under EU FTAs (e.g., with Korea, Japan, Canada) or UK FTAs. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing Glutamic acid and its salts under HS 2922.42 from other amino-acids or derivatives?
HS 2922.42 specifically covers 'Glutamic acid and its salts'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. Glutamic acid is a non-essential alpha-amino acid with the chemical formula C5H9NO4. Its salts include monosodium glutamate (MSG), monopotassium glutamate, and calcium diglutamate, among others. Classification under this subheading requires the product to be chemically identifiable as glutamic acid or one of its recognized salts. It's crucial to differentiate these from other amino-acids (e.g., lysine, methionine, glycine) which fall under different subheadings within Chapter 29, often 2922.49 or other specific codes, based on their distinct chemical structures. Laboratory analysis or a clear Certificate of Analysis from the manufacturer may be necessary to confirm the exact chemical composition.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing Glutamic acid and its salts (HS 2922.42)?
For imports of Glutamic acid and its salts (HS 2922.42), standard customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates under an FTA, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form A, EUR.1, or a self-certification by the exporter) is essential. Depending on the end-use and specific regulations of the importing country, additional documentation might be required. For instance, if intended for food or pharmaceutical use, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming purity and specifications, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), or compliance with food/drug administration regulations (e.g., FDA in the US, EFSA in the EU) may be necessary. Importers should verify all specific requirements with their customs broker or the relevant regulatory bodies in the destination country.