HS 293520 N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide
Quick Answer: HS code 293520 specifically covers N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide (N-EtFOSA), a synthetic organic chemical compound. This product falls under the broader category of organo-sulphur compounds, which are often used as intermediates in the production of various industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and specialty materials. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the precise classification is crucial due to varying duty rates. In the UK, the standard duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system applies a general duty rate of 6.50% ad valorem. In the US, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem, with additional preferential duty-free treatment available under various free trade agreements (e.g., A+, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Importers should verify eligibility for these preferential rates to optimize costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2935200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2935200000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2935200000 | 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 2935.20?
Imports of N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide 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 293520 cover?
This subheading covers N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide, a specific organo-sulphur compound falling under Heading 2935, which encompasses Sulphonamides. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature explicitly identifies this chemical compound by its precise chemical name and structure. Importers should verify that the chemical's CAS number and molecular formula align with the definition for N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide to ensure correct classification. This compound is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of various fluorochemicals, including certain polymers and surface treatment agents, and its classification here is based on its distinct chemical identity within the broader sulphonamide category as defined by the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC.
What falls outside HS 293520?
The following products are excluded from HS 293520: other per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are not specifically N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide, even if they share similar chemical properties or applications. For instance, perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and its salts, or other perfluorooctane sulphonamides with different alkyl groups, would be classified under other subheadings within Heading 2935 or potentially other chapters depending on their specific chemical structure and function. Mixtures containing N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide, where the compound is not the predominant component or where the mixture has a specific functional use, might also be excluded and classified under different headings, such as Chapter 38 for miscellaneous chemical products, if they constitute prepared mixtures.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293520?
A common error is misclassifying other perfluorinated sulphonamides or related PFAS compounds under HS 293520 due to a general understanding of their chemical family rather than strict adherence to the specific chemical name. Importers might incorrectly assume that any perfluorooctane sulphonamide derivative belongs here, overlooking the precise "N-Ethyl" prefix. This often occurs when relying solely on trade names or broad product descriptions without consulting the detailed chemical structure. Such mistakes can lead to incorrect duty assessments and potential penalties. Adherence to 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, is crucial to avoid these errors, ensuring the exact chemical identity matches the subheading description.
How should importers classify products under HS 293520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293520 involves a meticulous review of the chemical's identity. Importers and customs brokers should first obtain the precise chemical name, CAS number, and molecular formula from the manufacturer's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Certificate of Analysis. Verify that the compound is unequivocally N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide. Cross-reference this information with the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, and the EU TARIC system to confirm the specific subheading. If there is any ambiguity, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK) to ensure legal certainty and avoid potential compliance issues, thereby mitigating risks associated with misclassification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2935.20 ('N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide') in major markets, and how do they compare?
The MFN duty rates for N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide (HS 2935.20) vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States applies a rate of 6.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates a standard MFN duty rate of 6.00% ad valorem. In other jurisdictions, such as certain developing economies, the MFN rate could be considerably higher, potentially reflecting domestic industry protection or revenue generation objectives. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the precise MFN rate applicable at the time of import. These rates are subject to change based on international trade negotiations and domestic policy adjustments.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2935.20, and which trade agreements commonly offer them?
Yes, preferential duty rates are frequently available for HS 2935.20 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and generalized system of preferences (GSP) schemes. For example, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements such as the Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (BH), Chile Free Trade Agreement (CL), Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CO), Israel Free Trade Agreement (IL), Jordan Free Trade Agreement (JO), Korea Free Trade Agreement (KR), Morocco Free Trade Agreement (MA), Oman Free Trade Agreement (OM), Panama Trade Promotion Agreement (PA), Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PE), and Singapore Free Trade Agreement (SG) may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin are met. The UK Trade Tariff also lists 'Free' rates for numerous preferential origins. Importers must ensure they have the correct origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates. Eligibility is contingent upon the product meeting the specific rules of origin criteria outlined in each respective trade agreement.
What are the key classification criteria for N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide under HS 2935.20, and what distinguishes it from other sulphonamides?
N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide is classified under HS 2935.20 based on its specific chemical structure as a sulphonamide. Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System covers organic chemicals, and heading 2935 specifically includes 'Sulphonamides'. The subheading 2935.20 is designated for 'N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide'. The critical classification criteria revolve around the presence of the sulphonamide functional group (-SO2NH-) and the specific N-ethylperfluorooctane substituent. It is distinguished from other sulphonamides by this precise chemical composition. Importers must ensure the chemical name and structure on their technical data sheets, safety data sheets (SDS), and certificates of analysis precisely match the description for HS 2935.20 to avoid misclassification. Any variations in the alkyl or perfluoroalkyl chain, or the presence of additional functional groups not characteristic of this specific compound, would lead to classification under a different subheading within 2935 or another chapter entirely.
What specific documentation is typically required for the import of HS 2935.20, beyond standard shipping documents?
Beyond standard commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, the import of N-Ethylperfluorooctane sulphonamide (HS 2935.20) may require specific chemical-related documentation. This often includes a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide information on the chemical's properties, hazards, and safe handling. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is also frequently requested to verify the purity, concentration, and other chemical specifications of the imported substance, ensuring it matches the declared product. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, or a self-certification statement) is mandatory. Depending on the destination country's chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU), additional declarations or notifications regarding new or existing chemical substances might be necessary. Importers should verify all specific national import requirements with their customs broker or the relevant regulatory authorities prior to shipment.