HS 293332 Piperidine and its salts
Quick Answer: HS code 2933.32 covers "Piperidine and its salts," which are cyclic organic chemical compounds containing nitrogen within a six-membered ring structure. Piperidine itself is a colorless liquid with a pepper-like odor, often used as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty chemicals. Its salts are also included. Importers and customs brokers should note the varying duty rates: the UK applies a 6.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's TARIC system shows 6.50%. In the US, the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.5%, but preferential programs offer "Free" duty for eligible goods from numerous countries (e.g., under GSP, FTAs like USMCA, KORUS, etc.). Some specific forms may face a compound duty of 15.4¢/kg + 52%. Accurate classification and origin determination are crucial to leverage preferential tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933320000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933320000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933321000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2933325000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 293332 | — | — | — |
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 2933.32?
Imports of Piperidine 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, and 15 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 293332 cover?
This subheading covers piperidine and its salts, which are heterocyclic compounds containing an un-fused pyridine ring (a six-membered ring with one nitrogen atom) that has been fully hydrogenated. Piperidine itself is a colorless liquid with a pepper-like odor, commonly used as a building block in organic synthesis and as a chemical intermediate. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2933 specifically include heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only, and subheading 293332 precisely delineates the scope to piperidine and its various salt forms, such as piperidine hydrochloride or piperidine sulfate, as defined by the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system.
What falls outside HS 293332?
The following products are excluded from HS 293332: derivatives of piperidine where the nitrogen atom is part of a fused ring system, or where the piperidine ring is substituted in a way that fundamentally alters its chemical identity beyond simple alkyl or aryl substitutions that do not form new heterocyclic rings. For instance, drugs containing a piperidine moiety but classified as specific medicaments under Chapter 30, such as fentanyl (a 4-anilidopiperidine derivative), are excluded. Additionally, other nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds, even those structurally similar, like pyridine (which is unsaturated), would be classified under different subheadings within Heading 2933 or other headings in Chapter 29, depending on their specific chemical structure and saturation level.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293332?
A common error is misclassifying complex derivatives of piperidine under this subheading when they should be classified elsewhere due to their more specific chemical structure or primary function. Importers sometimes overlook 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. For example, a pharmaceutical intermediate that happens to contain a piperidine ring but is more specifically described by another subheading for a particular chemical group might be incorrectly placed here. Another mistake involves confusing piperidine with pyridine or other nitrogen heterocycles that are not fully saturated, leading to incorrect classification within Heading 2933 but under a different, incorrect subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 293332?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293332 involves a meticulous review of the chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula to confirm it is indeed piperidine or one of its salts. Importers and customs brokers should first apply GRI 1, ensuring the product precisely matches the description "Piperidine and its salts" as per the HTSUS or TARIC. It is crucial to consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2933 to understand the scope of nitrogen heterocyclic compounds. If there is any doubt regarding derivatives, a chemical analysis report or a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK) should be obtained to ensure accurate and compliant classification, avoiding potential penalties or delays.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2933.32 (Piperidine and its salts) in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rates for HS 2933.32 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for goods from non-preferential countries. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty of 6.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.5% ad valorem duty. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most current and accurate MFN duty rate, as these are subject to change based on national legislation and WCO recommendations.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment or reduced rates for Piperidine and its salts (HS 2933.32) when imported into the U.S.?
For imports into the United States, HS 2933.32 (Piperidine and its salts) can qualify for duty-free treatment under several preferential trade agreements and programs, provided all rules of origin are met. These include, but are not limited to, imports from countries designated under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP, 'A+'), Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR, 'D'), El Salvador ('E'), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and potentially others depending on the specific program or agreement. 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 ensuring a correct HS classification under 2933.32 for Piperidine and its salts?
The classification of 'Piperidine and its salts' under HS 2933.32 falls within Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System, which covers Organic Chemicals. Specifically, heading 2933 covers 'Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only'. Subheading 2933.3 covers 'Compounds containing an unfused pyridine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure'. The critical criterion for 2933.32 is the specific chemical structure: it must be piperidine or a salt thereof. Piperidine is a saturated heterocyclic amine with a six-membered ring containing one nitrogen atom. Importers must ensure that the chemical name, CAS number, and structural formula on the product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) precisely match the definition of piperidine or its salts to avoid misclassification. Any derivatives or compounds that are not piperidine or its direct salts, even if structurally similar, would likely fall under other subheadings within 2933 or other chapters.
What specific documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the import of HS 2933.32 (Piperidine and its salts)?
For the import of HS 2933.32, standard customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the nature of chemical products, customs authorities often require a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify the chemical composition, purity, and identity of the substance. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is also crucial for hazard communication and regulatory compliance. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, or other specific FTA certificate) is mandatory. Depending on the country and end-use, additional permits or licenses from chemical control agencies (e.g., EPA in the U.S., ECHA in the EU) might be necessary, especially if the substance is subject to specific chemical regulations or precursor controls.
Are there any specific trade restrictions or regulatory concerns for Piperidine and its salts (HS 2933.32) due to its potential uses?
Yes, Piperidine (HS 2933.32) is recognized as a chemical precursor and is subject to international and national controls due to its potential use in the illicit manufacture of controlled substances, particularly phencyclidine (PCP). It is listed as a Schedule II precursor under the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988. Consequently, many countries, including the United States (under the Controlled Substances Act), the European Union (under EC Regulation No 273/2004 and No 111/2005), and the UK, have strict licensing, reporting, and record-keeping requirements for its import, export, and domestic handling. Importers and customs brokers must be aware of and comply with these national chemical precursor control regulations, which may include obtaining import/export permits, registering with relevant authorities, and providing detailed information on the end-use and consignee.