HS 293622 Vitamin B1 and its derivatives
Quick Answer: HS Code 293622 specifically covers Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and its various derivatives, including salts and esters, used primarily in pharmaceuticals, food fortification, and animal feed. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty landscape is crucial. The United Kingdom and the European Union generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate to products classified under this code, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC. In the United States, the standard duty rate is "Free," according to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. However, it is critical to note that certain trade remedies, such as Section 301 duties on goods of Chinese origin, could impose additional tariffs, potentially reaching 25% ad valorem. Importers should verify the country of origin and any applicable trade measures to ensure accurate duty calculation and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936220000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936220000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2936220000 | 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 293622 cover?
This subheading covers Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and its derivatives, primarily used as vitamins or coenzymes. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 29, Heading 2936 encompasses provitamins and vitamins, natural or reproduced by synthesis, and derivatives thereof, principally used as vitamins, and intermixtures of the foregoing. HS 293622 specifically delineates Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and its various derivatives, such as thiamine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, and thiamine pyrophosphate, all of which are recognized for their vitamin activity and are essential for metabolic processes. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system align with this WCO interpretation, focusing on the chemical structure and primary function as a vitamin.
What falls outside HS 293622?
The following products are excluded from HS 293622: preparations containing Vitamin B1 or its derivatives mixed with other substances for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, which are generally classified in Chapter 30, specifically Heading 3003 or 3004, depending on whether they are put up in measured doses or for retail sale. For instance, a multivitamin tablet containing thiamine would be classified under Chapter 30, not 293622. Similarly, bulk thiamine used as an intermediate in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, but not yet formulated into a vitamin preparation, remains in 293622. However, if the thiamine is incorporated into animal feed supplements, it would typically fall under Chapter 23, specifically Heading 2309, as a preparation of a kind used in animal feeding.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293622?
A common error is misclassifying Vitamin B1 derivatives when they are incorporated into finished pharmaceutical products or food supplements. Importers often incorrectly apply HS 293622 to items that are clearly dosage forms or mixtures for specific uses, rather than the pure vitamin or its direct derivatives. This mistake often violates General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), which prioritizes classification by essential character for mixtures, or GRI 3(a) when considering specific headings for prepared medicaments. Another frequent oversight is failing to distinguish between pure thiamine and its salts or esters, which are correctly classified under 293622, versus complex formulations where the vitamin is merely an ingredient among many, leading to misclassification in Chapters 23 or 30.
How should importers classify products under HS 293622?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293622 involves a meticulous review of the product's chemical composition, form, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should first verify that the product is indeed Vitamin B1 or a direct derivative, such as thiamine hydrochloride, and not a mixture or preparation. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2936 to confirm the scope. If the product is a pure substance or a simple derivative, and its primary function is as a vitamin, then 293622 is appropriate. If it's part of a multi-ingredient preparation, especially one put up in measured doses or for retail sale as a medicament or food supplement, then classification should shift to Chapter 30 or Chapter 21/23, respectively, applying GRI 3(b) as necessary. Always retain detailed product specifications, Certificates of Analysis, and end-use declarations to support the classification decision.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2936.22 (Vitamin B1 and its derivatives) in major markets?
The MFN import duty rates for HS 2936.22 can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' rate, meaning 0.00% ad valorem, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database also indicates a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate for this heading. However, other countries may apply different rates; some developing nations or those with specific industrial policies might have higher MFN rates, potentially up to 25% ad valorem, to protect domestic industries or for revenue generation. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and current MFN duty rate.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) under HS 2936.22, and which trade agreements might apply?
Yes, preferential duty rates are frequently available for products classified under HS 2936.22, including Vitamin B1 and its derivatives, depending on the country of origin and the importing country's network of trade agreements. For instance, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) often qualify for a 0.00% preferential duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Similarly, the EU offers preferential rates under agreements such as the GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) for eligible developing countries, or specific FTAs with countries like South Korea or Japan. Importers must ensure they have the correct Certificates of Origin (e.g., Form A for GSP, specific FTA certificates) to claim these preferential rates, as per the agreement's requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Vitamin B1 and its derivatives' under HS 2936.22, and what common errors should be avoided?
HS 2936.22 specifically covers 'Vitamin B1 and its derivatives.' The primary criterion for classification is the chemical identity of the substance as Thiamine (Vitamin B1) or a derivative thereof, such as Thiamine Hydrochloride or Thiamine Mononitrate. These are typically pure or nearly pure chemical compounds, often in pharmaceutical or food-grade bulk forms. Common classification errors include misclassifying mixtures or preparations containing Vitamin B1 under this heading if the Vitamin B1 is not the predominant or essential character-imparting component. For example, multivitamin preparations, fortified foods, or finished dosage forms (e.g., tablets, capsules) containing Vitamin B1 would generally be classified under different headings, such as Chapter 30 for pharmaceutical products or Chapter 21 for food preparations, depending on their composition and intended use. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and specifically heading 29.36 provide detailed guidance on the scope of vitamins and their derivatives.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing Vitamin B1 (HS 2936.22), beyond standard customs entry documents?
Beyond standard customs entry documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Vitamin B1 and its derivatives (HS 2936.22) may require additional documentation due to its nature as a pharmaceutical ingredient or food additive. This can include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, confirming the purity, potency, and specifications of the product. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) might be required. If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, GSP Form A) is essential. For products intended for human consumption or pharmaceutical use, regulatory approvals or notifications from health authorities (e.g., FDA in the US, EMA in the EU) might be necessary, though these are typically for the finished product rather than the bulk raw material itself. Importers should verify specific import requirements with the relevant government agencies in the importing country prior to shipment.