HS 293621 Vitamins and their derivatives, unmixed
Quick Answer: HS code 293621 covers unmixed Vitamin A and its derivatives, crucial for various industries including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and cosmetics. Importers and exporters should note that this classification specifically excludes vitamin preparations or mixtures. Across major jurisdictions, the duty rates are generally favorable: the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty. In the US, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is "Free," though certain trade programs or specific country-of-origin scenarios could trigger a 25% duty under Section 301 tariffs (e.g., for goods from China). Accurate classification is vital to avoid delays and ensure correct duty assessment, especially given potential trade policy impacts.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936210000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 293621 cover?
This subheading covers Vitamin A and its derivatives, unmixed, as defined by the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically within Heading 2936, which encompasses provitamins and vitamins, natural or reproduced by synthesis (including natural concentrates), derivatives thereof used primarily as vitamins, and intermixtures of the foregoing, provided they are not put up as medicaments. For instance, Retinol (Vitamin A alcohol), Retinal (Vitamin A aldehyde), Retinoic acid (Tretinoin), and Retinyl acetate or palmitate, when presented in their pure, unmixed forms, fall under this classification. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system both align with the WCO's interpretation for this specific subheading, focusing on the chemical identity and unmixed presentation of Vitamin A and its direct derivatives.
What falls outside HS 293621?
The following products are excluded from HS 293621: Vitamin A and its derivatives when mixed with other substances, even if the mixture is primarily for vitamin purposes. For example, a blend of Vitamin A with Vitamin D would be classified under HS 293690 as "Other vitamins and their derivatives, unmixed" or potentially under a medicament heading if prepared for therapeutic or prophylactic uses (e.g., Chapter 30). Furthermore, preparations of Vitamin A put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale for therapeutic or prophylactic uses are excluded and typically fall under Chapter 30, specifically Heading 3004. Similarly, cosmetic preparations containing Vitamin A, such as anti-aging creams, are classified under Chapter 33, not within this chemical chapter.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293621?
A common error is classifying mixed vitamin preparations, or Vitamin A derivatives incorporated into medicaments or cosmetic products, under HS 293621. Importers often overlook the "unmixed" criterion, leading to misclassification. For instance, a concentrate of Vitamin A in an oil solution, if the oil is merely a carrier and not an active ingredient, might still be considered "unmixed" for classification purposes under General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 2(b) if the essential character remains that of the vitamin. However, if the oil itself contributes to the product's primary function or if other active ingredients are present, it would be excluded. Another mistake is failing to distinguish between bulk chemical forms and finished pharmaceutical products, which are governed by different chapters and classification rules.
How should importers classify products under HS 293621?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293621 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition and presentation. Importers and customs brokers should first confirm that the product is indeed Vitamin A or a direct derivative, such as Retinol or Retinyl palmitate, and critically, that it is presented in an unmixed form. This means no other active ingredients are present. Consult the product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to verify chemical purity and identify any excipients or other substances. If the product is a blend or formulated into a finished good (e.g., a supplement or cosmetic), it will likely fall outside this specific subheading. Always cross-reference with the official WCO Explanatory Notes, USITC HTS, and EU TARIC for definitive guidance and to ensure compliance with national regulations.
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FAQ
What are the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 2936.21 (Vitamin A and its derivatives, unmixed) in key markets?
The MFN duty rates for HS 2936.21 vary by importing country. For example, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the MFN (General) duty rate for 2936.21.00.00 is 0.00% ad valorem. Similarly, the EU TARIC database indicates a MFN duty rate of 0.00% for goods classified under CN code 2936 21 00. The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a duty rate of 'Free' for HS 2936.21. However, it is crucial to verify the specific duty rate for the destination country, as some countries may apply different MFN rates, potentially higher, for this classification. For instance, certain developing economies might apply duties up to 25% on such products to protect domestic industries or generate revenue. Importers should always consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country.
What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2936.21?
HS 2936.21 specifically covers 'Vitamin A and its derivatives, unmixed.' The primary classification criteria revolve around the chemical identity of the substance. To be classified here, the product must be chemically identifiable as Vitamin A (retinol) or a direct derivative thereof (e.g., retinal, retinoic acid, retinyl acetate, retinyl palmitate), and it must be 'unmixed.' 'Unmixed' means the substance is presented in its pure form, or as a solution in water or other solvents, provided the solvent is solely for preservation or transport and does not alter the fundamental character of the vitamin. If the vitamin is mixed with other active ingredients, excipients, or prepared into dosage forms (e.g., tablets, capsules), it would typically be classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 30 (Pharmaceutical products) or other relevant chapters depending on the mixture's nature and intended use. Reference to the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provides further guidance on the interpretation of 'unmixed' and derivatives.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty treatment for HS 2936.21, and how can importers claim them?
Many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs offer duty-free or reduced duty rates for HS 2936.21. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating in Mexico or Canada classified under HTSUS 2936.21.00.00 are eligible for a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, the EU has numerous FTAs (e.g., with Japan, South Korea, Canada) that would grant preferential treatment for this code, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. To claim preferential duty rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin outlined in the applicable trade agreement. This typically involves obtaining a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin from the exporter, which attests that the goods were produced or underwent sufficient processing in a beneficiary country. Customs brokers play a critical role in verifying origin documentation and correctly applying preferential tariff treatment.
What specific documentation is required for importing Vitamin A and its derivatives under HS 2936.21?
Beyond standard customs documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing products under HS 2936.21 may require additional specific documentation, particularly concerning product identity and regulatory compliance. Importers should be prepared to provide: 1) A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the chemical identity, purity, and concentration of the Vitamin A or its derivative. This is crucial for customs to verify the 'unmixed' nature and exact classification. 2) A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous material identification and handling. 3) Depending on the end-use and destination country's regulations, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under FTAs. 4) For products intended for human consumption or pharmaceutical use, compliance with food and drug administration regulations (e.g., FDA in the US, EMA in the EU) may necessitate specific permits, licenses, or declarations, even if the product itself is unmixed. It is advisable to consult with a customs broker or regulatory specialist in the importing country.