HS 293371 Lactams
Quick Answer: HS code 293371 covers "Lactams," which are cyclic amides with a nitrogen atom in the ring, derived from amino acids. These organic chemical compounds are crucial intermediates in the production of various polymers, including nylon, and are also used in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the specific lactam compound is essential for accurate classification. Key duty rates vary by jurisdiction: the UK applies a 6.00% ad valorem rate, while the EU's TARIC system shows a 6.50% ad valorem rate. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.5%, but many trade agreements offer duty-free access (e.g., under GSP, CAFTA-DR, KORUS FTA). Additionally, some specific lactams may be subject to compound duties, such as 15.4¢/kg + 40% for certain products. Importers should verify eligibility for preferential tariffs to optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933710000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933710000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2933710000 | 6.5% | 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 2933.71?
Imports of Lactams 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 293371 cover?
This subheading covers lactams, which are cyclic amides. Specifically, HS 2933.71 encompasses 6-hexanelactam (epsilon-caprolactam), a crucial monomer primarily used in the production of nylon 6. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2933 clarify that this heading covers heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only, and subheading 2933.71 specifically identifies 6-hexanelactam. Official sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system consistently list 6-hexanelactam under this specific code, reflecting its distinct chemical structure and industrial significance as a building block for synthetic polymers.
What falls outside HS 293371?
The following products are excluded from HS 293371: other lactams not specifically identified as 6-hexanelactam, which would generally fall under other subheadings within 2933.79 (e.g., "Other lactams") or other relevant headings based on their specific chemical structure. For instance, pyrrolidone (gamma-butyrolactam) or valerolactam would not be classified here, as they are distinct chemical compounds with different ring sizes and applications, despite also being lactams. Furthermore, polymers derived from 6-hexanelactam, such as nylon 6 in primary forms (e.g., granules, chips), are classified in Chapter 39, specifically under headings like 3908, as they are no longer the monomeric lactam but rather a finished polymer.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293371?
A common error is misclassifying other lactams, such as pyrrolidone or valerolactam, under HS 293371, which is exclusively reserved for 6-hexanelactam (epsilon-caprolactam). This mistake often arises from a general understanding of "lactams" without precise chemical identification. Another frequent error involves classifying nylon 6 in primary forms under this subheading instead of Chapter 39. 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, and GRI 6, which applies the same principles at the subheading level. Accurate classification necessitates precise chemical identification and adherence to the specific scope defined for 6-hexanelactam.
How should importers classify products under HS 293371?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293371 involves verifying that the imported substance is unequivocally 6-hexanelactam (epsilon-caprolactam) through chemical analysis or supplier documentation, such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2933 and cross-reference with the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTSUS or the EU TARIC, to confirm the exact wording and any relevant legal notes. If the product is a different lactam or a polymer of 6-hexanelactam, it must be classified under the appropriate alternative subheading or heading, ensuring compliance with GRI 1 and GRI 6 for accurate duty assessment and trade compliance.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2933.71 (Lactams)?
For products classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2933.71, which covers Lactams, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database shows an MFN duty rate of 6.5% ad valorem for many lactams under this heading. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.5% ad valorem MFN rate. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS), EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff, for the precise and current MFN duty rate applicable at the time of importation.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Lactams under HS 2933.71 through free trade agreements or special programs when importing into the United States?
Yes, preferential duty rates, including 'Free' status, are often available for Lactams (HS 2933.71) when imported into the United States from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or other special trade programs. Based on the HTSUS, 'Free' duty rates (0% ad valorem) can apply to goods originating 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), among others, provided the goods meet the rules of origin requirements of the respective agreement. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates. For specific eligibility, refer to the General Notes and Chapter 99 of the HTSUS.
What are the key classification criteria for ensuring a substance is correctly classified under HS 2933.71 as a 'Lactam'?
The classification of a substance under HS 2933.71 requires it to be a 'Lactam,' which is a cyclic amide. This subheading specifically covers 'Lactams; other heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only.' Key criteria include the presence of a nitrogen atom as the only hetero-atom in the heterocyclic ring system, and the compound must contain a cyclic amide functional group. It's crucial to distinguish lactams from other cyclic nitrogen compounds, such as lactims or other amides. The chemical structure, including the ring size and the position of the carbonyl group relative to the nitrogen, is paramount. Importers should provide detailed chemical names, CAS numbers, and structural formulas to customs authorities to support accurate classification, referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for Chapter 29 for guidance.
Beyond standard customs declarations, are there any specific documentation or regulatory requirements for importing Lactams (HS 2933.71)?
In addition to standard import documentation like commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, importers of Lactams (HS 2933.71) may face specific regulatory requirements depending on the substance and the importing country. For instance, certain lactams might be subject to chemical control regulations, such as the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the United States, requiring TSCA certification. In the EU, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations may apply, necessitating pre-registration or registration of the substance. Importers should always verify if the specific lactam is listed under any national or international chemical inventories or control lists. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is typically required for chemical imports to provide information on hazards and safe handling, and it can also aid in classification and regulatory compliance.
Can you provide an example of a complex duty rate structure that might apply to a specific lactam under HS 2933.71?
While many lactams under HS 2933.71 have ad valorem rates, some specific variants or derivatives might be subject to complex duty rate structures, particularly in countries with highly detailed tariff schedules or specific trade policy measures. For example, a hypothetical complex rate could be '15.4¢/kg + 40% ad valorem.' This is a compound duty rate, meaning the duty calculation involves both a specific rate based on weight (cents per kilogram) and an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the customs value). Such rates are less common for general chemical headings but can appear for specific products or as part of anti-dumping or countervailing duties. Importers must apply both components to the dutiable value and weight of the imported goods. It is critical to check the specific tariff line in the destination country's HTS for any such compound rates that might apply to a particular lactam.