HS 293070 Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol (INN))
Quick Answer: HS code 293070 specifically covers Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide, commonly known as thiodiglycol (INN). This organic chemical compound is a colorless, viscous liquid primarily used as a solvent, in the production of plastics, and as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chemicals. It is also recognized for its role in certain chemical warfare agents, leading to strict export controls. For importers, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are 6.00% in the UK, 6.50% in the EU, and 3.7% ad valorem in the US. The US also offers duty-free treatment under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) for eligible originating goods from countries like Australia, Korea, and Mexico. Importers and exporters must verify origin and compliance with relevant trade agreements to leverage preferential tariffs. Due to its dual-use potential, transactions involving thiodiglycol are subject to stringent licensing and reporting requirements under international chemical weapons conventions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930700000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930700000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2930700000 | 3.7% | 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 2930.70?
Imports of Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol (INN)) 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 293070 cover?
This subheading covers Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide, commonly known by its International Nonproprietary Name (INN) thiodiglycol. It is a specific acyclic thioether alcohol, characterized by the presence of a sulfur atom within its carbon chain and two hydroxyl groups. As defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this chemical compound is precisely defined by its chemical structure and name, ensuring consistent global classification for this particular organic sulfur compound.
What falls outside HS 293070?
The following products are excluded from HS 293070: other thioethers that do not possess the specific Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide structure, even if they have similar functional groups or applications. For instance, other sulfur-containing organic compounds, such as simple thiols (mercaptans) or sulfides without the specific di-hydroxyethyl structure, would be classified elsewhere within Heading 2930 or other relevant headings in Chapter 29. Similarly, mixtures containing thiodiglycol but where it is not the predominant component or where the mixture constitutes a preparation of Chapter 38, would also be excluded, requiring classification based on the nature of the mixture.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293070?
A common error is misclassifying other sulfur-containing organic compounds as thiodiglycol due to similar names or uses, without verifying the exact chemical structure. Importers might mistakenly classify other thioethers or even thiols under 293070 if they do not precisely match the "Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide" definition. This often occurs when relying solely on trade names or general descriptions rather than the specific chemical nomenclature. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid such errors, requiring a precise chemical identification.
How should importers classify products under HS 293070?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293070 involves verifying the exact chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers must ensure that the product is unequivocally Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol (INN)) through chemical analysis, safety data sheets (SDS), or certificates of analysis from the manufacturer. It is essential to cross-reference the chemical name and CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number with official tariff schedules like the HTSUS or EU TARIC. Any ambiguity should prompt consultation with a customs expert or the relevant customs authority to confirm the precise chemical structure and avoid misclassification, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and the specific terms of Heading 2930.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2930.70 (Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol (INN))) in major markets?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) applied duty rates for HS code 2930.70 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common MFN duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a standard duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country through official customs tariff databases such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol) under HS 2930.70, and how can importers claim them?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2930.70 under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programs. For instance, the provided sample indicates 'Free' status for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Korea (KR), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) into certain markets (e.g., the U.S.). To claim preferential duty rates, importers must ensure the product meets the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the applicable trade agreement and provide valid documentation, typically a Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form A for GSP, specific FTA certificates). Customs brokers are essential in navigating these requirements and ensuring proper documentation is submitted to the importing customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol) under HS 2930.70, and what might cause classification challenges?
HS code 2930.70 specifically covers 'Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol (INN))'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity and structure of the compound. As a defined organic chemical, it falls under Chapter 29, which covers 'Organic chemicals', and more specifically under heading 2930 for 'Organo-sulphur compounds'. The '70' subheading precisely identifies thiodiglycol. Classification challenges typically arise if the product is not pure thiodiglycol but a mixture, a solution, or contains other active ingredients, which might lead to classification under other subheadings within Chapter 29 or even other chapters (e.g., if it's part of a formulated preparation). Importers should provide a detailed chemical analysis or specification sheet to their customs broker to ensure accurate classification.
What specific documentation is required for importing Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol) under HS 2930.70?
Standard import documentation for HS 2930.70 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and potentially a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to confirm the chemical identity and purity, especially if there are any doubts about classification. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., FTA certificate) is mandatory. Depending on the importing country's regulations, additional permits or declarations related to chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the U.S., REACH in the EU/UK) might be required, particularly if the substance is new to the market or subject to specific chemical inventory reporting. Importers should consult their customs broker or the relevant national chemical regulatory authority.
Could HS 2930.70 be subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties, or other trade remedies?
While HS 2930.70 is a specific chemical, any imported product, including Bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfide (thiodiglycol), can potentially be subject to anti-dumping duties (ADD) or countervailing duties (CVD) if investigations by the importing country's trade authorities (e.g., U.S. Department of Commerce, EU Commission) determine that it is being dumped or unfairly subsidized, causing material injury to domestic industries. Additionally, products under this HS code could be impacted by Section 232 (national security) or Section 301 (unfair trade practices) tariffs, as seen with certain goods from specific countries. Importers should regularly check official trade remedy databases (e.g., U.S. International Trade Commission, EU Anti-dumping and Anti-subsidy measures) for any ongoing investigations or existing orders related to this specific chemical or broader chemical categories that might include it.