HS 292512 Glutethimide (INN)
Quick Answer: HS code 292512 specifically covers Glutethimide (INN), a pharmaceutical substance classified under the broader category of compounds with other nitrogen functions. Glutethimide is a sedative-hypnotic drug, though its use has largely been discontinued due to safety concerns and the availability of newer alternatives. For importers and exporters, understanding the precise classification is crucial for compliance. Duty rates for Glutethimide vary significantly by jurisdiction. In the UK and EU, the applied duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem. Conversely, the United States imposes a more complex duty structure, with a sample rate of Free or 15.4¢/kg + 61% ad valorem, depending on specific trade agreements or Most Favored Nation (MFN) status. Given the pharmaceutical nature, importers should also be aware of potential import restrictions, licensing requirements, and regulatory approvals from health authorities such as the FDA in the US or EMA in the EU, beyond standard customs procedures.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2925120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2925120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2925120000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 292512 cover?
This subheading covers Glutethimide (INN), which is an International Nonproprietary Name for 2-ethyl-2-phenylglutarimide. As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (WCO) and consistent with the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and EU TARIC, this specific chemical compound is classified here due to its defined chemical structure and its status as an imide derivative. Glutethimide is a piperidinedione derivative that was historically used as a hypnotic-sedative drug, and its classification under 292512 specifically identifies this single, distinct chemical entity within the broader category of compounds with imide-function compounds.
What falls outside HS 292512?
The following products are excluded from HS 292512: other imide-function compounds not specifically named as Glutethimide (INN), which would typically fall under other subheadings within Heading 2925, such as 292519 for "Other imides and their derivatives; salts thereof." For example, thalidomide, another imide derivative, is classified under 292519. Additionally, pharmaceutical preparations containing Glutethimide in measured doses or put up for retail sale are excluded, as these would be classified under Chapter 30, specifically Heading 3004, which covers medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 292512?
A common error is misclassifying other imide-function compounds as Glutethimide (INN) simply because they share a similar chemical structure or functional group. This mistake often occurs when importers do not precisely verify the specific chemical name and INN. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, classification must be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Therefore, only the exact chemical compound Glutethimide (INN) is classified under 292512; other imides, even closely related ones, must be classified under the residual subheading 292519, or other more specific headings if applicable, based on their precise chemical identity.
How should importers classify products under HS 292512?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 292512 involves verifying that the imported substance is unequivocally Glutethimide (INN). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or other technical documentation from the manufacturer that clearly identifies the chemical name, CAS number (typically 77-21-4 for Glutethimide), and chemical structure. This documentation should confirm that the product is indeed 2-ethyl-2-phenylglutarimide. This rigorous verification ensures compliance with GRI 1, which mandates classification based on the most specific description, preventing misclassification and potential penalties or delays at customs. Always cross-reference with the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC.
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12 when imported into the United States?
For imports into the United States, Glutethimide (INN) classified under HTSUS subheading 2925.12.0000 is subject to a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem. This rate applies to goods from countries with which the U.S. has normal trade relations. This information is based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) as published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12 when imported into the European Union?
Yes, preferential duty rates may apply for Glutethimide (INN) (CN code 2925 12 00) when imported into the European Union, depending on the country of origin. The general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate (Erga Omnes) for this product is typically 'Free' (0.00%). However, importers should consult the EU TARIC database for specific origin-based preferences, such as those under Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes or various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) the EU has with partner countries. Eligibility for preferential rates often requires a valid proof of origin, such as a EUR.1 certificate or a declaration of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12?
Glutethimide (INN) is classified under HS 2925.12 based on its chemical structure and function. Chapter 29 covers 'Organic chemicals.' Heading 2925 specifically includes 'Carboxyimide-function compounds (including saccharin and its salts) and imine-function compounds.' Subheading 2925.12 is dedicated to 'Glutethimide (INN).' The 'INN' designation (International Nonproprietary Name) confirms its identity as a specific pharmaceutical substance. Classification hinges on the precise chemical identity matching the description of Glutethimide, an imide-function compound. Importers must ensure the product's chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula align with this specific entry, as per the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes.
What documentation is typically required for importing Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12?
Importation of Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12 typically requires standard customs documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Due to its nature as a pharmaceutical substance, additional regulatory documentation is often mandatory. This may include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm purity and composition, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and potentially import permits or licenses from national health or drug regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA in the U.S., EMA in the EU, MHRA in the UK). Importers should verify specific requirements with the relevant regulatory bodies in the country of importation, as Glutethimide is a controlled substance in many jurisdictions.
How do trade agreements, such as the USMCA, affect the duty rates for Glutethimide (INN) under HS 2925.12 when imported into the United States?
For imports of Glutethimide (INN) (HTSUS 2925.12.0000) into the United States, trade agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) generally provide for duty-free treatment, provided the goods meet the agreement's Rules of Origin. Since the MFN duty rate for this specific HTSUS subheading is already 0.00% ad valorem, the direct impact of such agreements on the duty rate is often negligible in terms of cost savings. However, meeting USMCA (or other FTA) origin requirements is still crucial for demonstrating compliance and ensuring continued duty-free access, even if the MFN rate is zero. Importers must have proper documentation, such as a USMCA certification of origin, to substantiate the claim.