HS 293120 Tributyltin compounds
Quick Answer: HS code 293120 covers tributyltin compounds, a specific class of organo-tin compounds. These are chemical substances primarily used as biocides in antifouling paints for marine vessels, wood preservatives, and agricultural fungicides, though their use has been significantly restricted globally due to environmental concerns. For importers and exporters, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial. Duty rates vary: the UK applies a 6.00% ad valorem rate, the EU a 6.50% ad valorem rate, and the US a 3.7% ad valorem rate for most favored nation (MFN) imports. However, the US offers duty-free treatment under various preferential trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, KR, SG). Importers should verify eligibility for these programs. Additionally, be aware of potential import/export restrictions or outright bans on these compounds due to their environmental impact, as enforced by national environmental protection agencies and international conventions like the IMO's AFS Convention.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2931200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2931200000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2931200000 | 3.7% | Free (17 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 2931.20?
Imports of Tributyltin compounds 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 14 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 293120 cover?
This subheading covers tributyltin compounds, which are organo-tin compounds where three butyl groups are directly bonded to a tin atom. These chemical compounds are specifically enumerated within the Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature under Heading 2931, which encompasses other organo-inorganic compounds. The scope is precise, focusing exclusively on compounds containing the tributyltin moiety. Examples include tributyltin oxide (TBTO), tributyltin chloride, and tributyltin methacrylate, all of which are recognized for their biocidal properties and are subject to specific regulatory controls due to environmental concerns. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29, confirming this narrow product scope.
What falls outside HS 293120?
The following products are excluded from HS 293120: other organo-tin compounds that do not possess the tributyltin structure, such as dibutyltin compounds, monobutyltin compounds, or tetrabutyltin. For instance, dibutyltin dilaurate, while an organo-tin compound, would be classified under 2931.90.00 as "Other organo-inorganic compounds." Furthermore, mixtures or preparations containing tributyltin compounds, where the tributyltin compound is not presented in an unmixed form or as a simple solution, would generally be classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 38 if they are biocidal preparations, or potentially under other chapters based on their primary function and composition, in accordance with General Interpretative Rule 3(b).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293120?
A common error is misclassifying other organo-tin compounds, such as dibutyltin or monobutyltin derivatives, under 293120 due to a general understanding that they are "tin compounds." This overlooks the specific "tributyltin" requirement of the subheading. Another frequent mistake involves classifying preparations or mixtures containing tributyltin compounds directly under 293120, rather than considering their primary function and composition under other headings, such as Chapter 38 for biocides, which is a misapplication of General Interpretative Rule 3(b). Importers sometimes fail to distinguish between the pure chemical compound and a formulated product, leading to incorrect duty rates and regulatory compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 293120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293120 involves a meticulous review of the chemical structure to confirm the presence of the tributyltin moiety. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a detailed chemical analysis or a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, clearly identifying the compound as a tributyltin derivative. It is crucial to ensure the product is not a mixture or preparation that would be more appropriately classified under a different heading based on its end-use or composition, applying General Interpretative Rules 1 and 6. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2931 and cross-referencing with the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC system for specific product descriptions is essential for accurate and compliant classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Tributyltin compounds (HS 2931.20) in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for Harmonized System (HS) code 2931.20 'Tributyltin compounds' vary by importing country. For example, the United States applies a general MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a general MFN duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.00% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always verify the current rates with the official customs tariff of the destination country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Tributyltin compounds (HS 2931.20) under free trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for HS 2931.20 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and special programs, provided the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin. For instance, the United States offers duty-free treatment for imports from countries such as 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) under respective FTAs. The EU and UK also offer preferential rates for goods originating from partner countries. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation (e.g., certificate of origin) to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Tributyltin compounds under HS 2931.20?
HS code 2931.20 specifically covers 'Tributyltin compounds' within Chapter 29, which pertains to 'Organic chemicals'. The classification hinges on the chemical structure being an organo-inorganic compound where the tin atom is directly bonded to three butyl groups. This distinguishes it from other organo-inorganic compounds of tin or other metals. Importers and customs brokers should refer to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 29 and Heading 29.31 for precise guidance, ensuring the chemical name and CAS number align with the definition of a tributyltin compound.
What specific documentation is required for importing Tributyltin compounds (HS 2931.20), beyond standard customs paperwork?
Beyond standard import documentation like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, Tributyltin compounds (HS 2931.20) may be subject to additional regulatory controls due to their environmental and health impacts. Importers may need to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous materials handling. Furthermore, these compounds are often regulated under international conventions like the Rotterdam Convention (PIC procedure) or national chemical control laws (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU). This could necessitate import permits, notifications, or certifications demonstrating compliance with environmental protection agencies or chemical regulatory bodies. It is crucial to check specific national regulations of the importing country.
Are there any anti-dumping or countervailing duties (AD/CVD) applicable to HS 2931.20?
While there are no universally applicable anti-dumping or countervailing duties (AD/CVD) on Tributyltin compounds (HS 2931.20) at present across all major markets, these duties are country- and product-specific and can be imposed or revoked based on trade investigations. Importers must regularly check the official trade remedy websites of the importing country (e.g., U.S. Department of Commerce, EU Commission Trade Defence, UK Trade Remedies Authority) to determine if any AD/CVD orders are in effect for imports of HS 2931.20 from specific countries of origin. Failure to account for applicable AD/CVD can result in significant penalties and retroactive duty assessments.