HS 293040 Methionine
Quick Answer: HS code 293040 specifically covers "Methionine," an essential sulfur-containing amino acid crucial in animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and nutritional supplements. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the varying duty rates is key. In the UK, rates can range from 0.00% to 6.00% ad valorem, depending on the specific product form and origin, as detailed in the UK Trade Tariff. Similarly, the EU TARIC system shows rates from 0.00% to 6.50% ad valorem. The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule generally lists Methionine as "Free," though certain specific forms or origins, particularly those subject to Section 301 tariffs (e.g., from China), may incur additional duties, such as 25% ad valorem. Always verify the exact subheading and country of origin for precise duty calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930401000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2930400000 | — | — | — |
| 2930409000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930400000 | — | — | — |
| 2930401000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 2930409000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930400000 | 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 293040 cover?
This subheading covers methionine, which is a sulfur-containing essential amino acid. Specifically, it encompasses 2-amino-4-(methylthio)butanoic acid, including its D-, L-, and DL-forms, as well as its salts and esters, provided they are chemically defined and fall within the scope of Chapter 29. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2930 explicitly include methionine, and this is consistently reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system, where it is recognized as a distinct chemical compound. This classification is for pure, isolated methionine, often used in animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and food supplements.
What falls outside HS 293040?
The following products are excluded from HS 293040: preparations containing methionine mixed with other substances, such as vitamin or mineral premixes, which are generally classified in Chapter 23 (e.g., animal feed preparations) or Chapter 30 (e.g., medicaments). For instance, methionine in a blend with other amino acids or carriers for use as a feed additive would typically fall under 2309.90. Additionally, derivatives of methionine that are not its simple salts or esters, but rather more complex chemical modifications, would be classified under other appropriate subheadings within Chapter 29 or even other chapters depending on their chemical structure and function. Methionine in bulk form, but not chemically defined as a pure compound, might also be excluded if it fails to meet Chapter 29's purity requirements.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293040?
A common error is misclassifying methionine-containing preparations as pure methionine under HS 293040. Importers often overlook the distinction between a chemically defined pure compound and a mixture or preparation. For example, a product marketed as "methionine supplement" that contains methionine blended with diluents or other active ingredients should not be classified here. This mistake 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, and GRI 3(b) for mixtures. Another error involves failing to distinguish between methionine and its more complex derivatives, which, despite containing the methionine structure, are distinct chemical compounds requiring separate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 293040?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293040 involves verifying that the imported substance is chemically pure methionine (2-amino-4-(methylthio)butanoic acid), including its D-, L-, or DL-forms, or its simple salts and esters. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer to confirm the chemical identity, purity, and absence of other active ingredients. If the product is a mixture or preparation, it must be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 23 for animal feed preparations or Chapter 30 for medicaments, depending on its composition and intended use. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2930 and relevant national tariff guidance (e.g., USITC HTSUS General Notes or EU TARIC classification regulations) is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid misclassification penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Methionine (HS 293040) in major markets?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for Methionine (HS 293040) can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate for products classified under 2930.40.00 under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem for Methionine (CN code 2930 40 00). The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.5% ad valorem duty for this heading. Other countries may have rates such as 0.00%, 6.00%, or even higher, up to 25% in some developing economies. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and current duty rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Methionine under HS 2930.40, and what are common misclassification pitfalls?
Methionine is classified under HS 2930.40 as 'Compounds containing an unfused thiophene ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, not further modified; Methionine'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical structure, specifically the presence of the amino acid methionine. Common misclassification pitfalls arise when Methionine is imported as part of a mixture or preparation, rather than in its pure form. If Methionine is a component of a feed additive, a pharmaceutical preparation, or a food supplement, the classification might shift to Chapter 23 (e.g., feed preparations), Chapter 30 (pharmaceuticals), or Chapter 21 (food preparations), depending on its concentration, function, and the nature of the other ingredients. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide guidance that pure, chemically defined organic compounds are classified here, even if they have a specific use. Importers must ensure the product's chemical purity and primary function align with Chapter 29 to avoid reclassification and potential penalties.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Methionine (HS 293040), and what documentation is required to claim them?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Methionine (HS 293040), potentially reducing or eliminating the MFN duty. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Methionine originating from Mexico or Canada would typically be 'Free' when imported into the U.S., provided it meets the Rules of Origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) (e.g., with South Korea, Japan, Canada) that could grant preferential rates, often 0.00%, for qualifying Methionine. To claim preferential duty rates, importers generally need to provide a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate, or an origin declaration on the invoice) that demonstrates the product meets the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective trade agreement. Failure to provide proper documentation at the time of import will result in the application of the MFN duty rate.
Are there any specific import documentation or regulatory requirements for Methionine (HS 293040) beyond standard customs declarations?
Beyond standard customs declarations (e.g., commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill), Methionine (HS 293040) may be subject to additional regulatory requirements depending on its intended use and the importing country. If Methionine is intended for use in animal feed, it may require registration or approval from agricultural or food safety authorities (e.g., FDA in the U.S., EFSA in the EU) and may need a phytosanitary certificate or a certificate of analysis. For pharmaceutical or human consumption applications, health certificates, compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and specific labeling requirements might apply. Importers should verify with the relevant national regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, USDA, EPA in the U.S.; national food safety agencies in the EU) for any product-specific licenses, permits, or certifications required prior to importation to ensure compliance and avoid delays or rejection at the border.