HS 293354 Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof
Quick Answer: HS code 293354 covers "Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof." This classification specifically includes chemical compounds derived from barbituric acid, which is a foundational structure for various pharmaceuticals, particularly sedatives and hypnotics. Importers and exporters should note the significant duty rate variations: the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty, while the US imposes a 3.7% ad valorem duty for Most Favored Nation (MFN) countries. However, the US offers duty-free treatment under numerous preferential trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, CL, KR, SG). A punitive 50% duty rate may apply in specific circumstances. Due to the nature of these chemicals, trade may be subject to stringent regulatory controls, including licensing and end-use declarations, particularly for pharmaceutical precursors. Customs brokers must verify specific product formulations against national chemical inventories and controlled substance lists.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933540000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933540000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933540000 | 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 2933.54?
Imports of Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof 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 17 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 293354 cover?
This subheading covers "Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof," specifically excluding barbital (5,5-diethylbarbituric acid) and its salts, which are classified under HS 293353. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature Explanatory Notes (ENs) for Heading 2933, this includes a wide range of organic compounds characterized by the pyrimidine ring system, derived from malonylurea. Examples include phenobarbital (5-ethyl-5-phenylbarbituric acid) and its sodium salt, secobarbital, amobarbital, and pentobarbital, along with their respective salts. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC system align with this WCO definition, ensuring consistent global classification for these pharmaceutical intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
What falls outside HS 293354?
The following products are excluded from HS 293354: barbital (5,5-diethylbarbituric acid) and its salts, which are specifically enumerated and classified under HS 293353. Additionally, certain non-barbituric acid derivatives of pyrimidine, such as uracil, thymine, and cytosine, which are fundamental components of nucleic acids, are classified under HS 293359 ("Other"). Preparations containing these derivatives, if they are put up in measured doses or for retail sale as medicaments, would be classified under Chapter 30, specifically Heading 3004, rather than Chapter 29, as they transcend the scope of pure chemical compounds. This distinction is crucial for accurate customs declarations.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293354?
A common error is misclassifying barbital or its salts under HS 293354, despite HS 293353 being specifically dedicated to them. This often arises from a superficial reading of the subheading description without fully appreciating the hierarchical structure and specific exclusions within Heading 2933. Another mistake involves classifying pharmaceutical preparations containing these derivatives in Chapter 29 when they should be in Chapter 30, particularly if they are in measured doses or packaged for retail sale as medicaments, as per General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) and the Chapter 30 legal notes. Importers sometimes overlook the "other derivatives" aspect, failing to distinguish between true barbituric acid derivatives and other pyrimidine compounds.
How should importers classify products under HS 293354?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293354 involves a multi-step approach. First, confirm that the product is indeed a derivative of malonylurea (barbituric acid) and not barbital or its salts (HS 293353). Second, verify that it is not a medicament in measured doses or put up for retail sale, which would lead to classification in Chapter 30. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2933, along with the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to ensure alignment. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or technical data sheet detailing the chemical structure and purity is essential documentation to support the classification, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and the chapter notes.
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FAQ
What are the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 2933.54 in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rates for HS code 2933.54, covering 'Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof', vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for products classified under HTSUS 2933.54. The European Union's TARIC database also indicates a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for this heading. However, other countries may apply different rates, such as 3.7% or even up to 50% ad valorem in certain jurisdictions. Importers should always verify the specific MFN duty rate applicable in their destination country's official customs tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2933.54, and which trade agreements commonly offer them?
Yes, preferential duty rates are widely available for HS 2933.54 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and generalized system of preferences (GSP) programs. For example, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements such as the USMCA (Mexico, Canada), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic, Central American countries), and FTAs with 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) may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Similar preferential treatment may exist under EU FTAs (e.g., with South Korea, Japan) or UK trade agreements. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for determining if a product falls under HS 2933.54?
HS code 2933.54 specifically covers 'Other derivatives of malonylurea (barbituric acid); salts thereof'. The primary classification criteria revolve around the chemical structure of the compound. Products must be derivatives of malonylurea (also known as barbituric acid), which is a heterocyclic compound containing a pyrimidine ring. This heading excludes barbituric acid itself (classified under 2933.53) and specifically targets other derivatives and their corresponding salts. Importers and customs brokers should refer to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29, particularly heading 29.33, for precise chemical definitions and examples to ensure accurate classification. A detailed chemical analysis or certificate of analysis may be required by customs authorities.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing products classified under HS 2933.54?
For products under HS 2933.54, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Due to the chemical nature of these products, additional documentation is often required. This may include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the chemical composition and purity, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous materials, and potentially a manufacturer's declaration or technical data sheet to support the classification. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, GSP Form A, or FTA-specific certificate) is mandatory. Depending on the specific derivative and its end-use, permits or licenses from regulatory bodies (e.g., health or pharmaceutical authorities) may also be necessary.