HS 293750 Prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes, their derivatives and structural analogues
Quick Answer: HS code 293750 encompasses a specialized category of organic compounds crucial in pharmaceutical and biochemical applications. This heading specifically covers prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, along with their derivatives and structural analogues. These are potent lipid compounds derived from fatty acids, playing vital roles in various physiological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and immune responses. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty landscape is key. The United Kingdom and the European Union generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate to products classified under this code. In the United States, while many items within this classification are "Free," certain products may be subject to a 25% ad valorem duty, particularly under specific trade provisions or Section 301 tariffs. Importers should verify the specific sub-heading and origin to confirm the applicable US duty rate. Due to the sensitive nature and high value of these pharmaceutical intermediates, accurate classification is paramount to ensure compliance and avoid potential delays or penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2937500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2937500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2937500000 | Free | — | ["g"] |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 293750 cover?
This subheading covers prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, along with their derivatives and structural analogues, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system. These are highly potent biologically active compounds derived from fatty acids, primarily eicosanoids, which play crucial roles in various physiological processes such as inflammation, blood clotting, and smooth muscle contraction. Examples include prostaglandin E2 (dinoprostone), thromboxane A2, and leukotriene B4, whether in bulk form or as intermediate pharmaceutical ingredients, provided they are chemically defined and not mixtures or preparations of Chapter 30.
What falls outside HS 293750?
The following products are excluded from HS 293750: medicaments containing prostaglandins, thromboxanes, or leukotrienes, which are classified in Chapter 30, specifically under headings such as 3003 (for unmixed products put up in measured doses or for retail sale) or 3004 (for mixed or compound preparations). For instance, an injectable solution of alprostadil (a prostaglandin E1 analogue) prepared for therapeutic use would fall under 3004. Additionally, diagnostic reagents incorporating these substances, if specifically formulated for diagnostic purposes, would typically be classified under heading 3822. Pure, chemically defined steroids, even if structurally related in some biological pathways, are classified separately under 293729.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293750?
A common error is misclassifying pharmaceutical preparations containing these substances directly into 293750, rather than Chapter 30. This often occurs due to a misunderstanding of Legal Note 1(a) to Chapter 30, which explicitly states that medicaments (products consisting of two or more constituents which have been mixed or compounded together for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, or unmixed products put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale for such uses) are excluded from Chapter 29. Importers must apply General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(a) when considering products that could fall under both 293750 and Chapter 30, prioritizing the more specific description of Chapter 30 for finished medicaments.
How should importers classify products under HS 293750?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293750 requires importers and customs brokers to first confirm that the substance is a chemically defined prostaglandin, thromboxane, leukotriene, or a derivative/structural analogue thereof, and not a mixture or preparation. They must then verify that the product is not put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, which would direct it to Chapter 30. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 and Chapter 30 is crucial. If there is any doubt regarding its status as a bulk chemical versus a medicament, obtaining a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority (e.g., CBP in the US, national customs authorities in the EU) is highly recommended to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
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FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for products classified under HS 2937.50?
For products classified under HS 2937.50, which covers 'Prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrienes, their derivatives and structural analogues,' the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are frequently 0.00% ad valorem in many major customs territories. For instance, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS) generally applies a 'Free' rate for goods from MFN countries. Similarly, the European Union's TARIC database often shows a 0.00% ad valorem duty. However, it is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable to the country of importation, as some countries may apply different rates, potentially up to 25% ad valorem, depending on their national tariff schedule and trade policy.
What are the key criteria for classifying a product under HS 2937.50?
Classification under HS 2937.50 is determined by the specific chemical structure and function of the substance. This heading specifically covers prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, as well as their derivatives and structural analogues. The primary criterion is that the substance must be a chemically defined organic compound falling into one of these categories, typically used for pharmaceutical or research purposes due to their potent physiological effects. Importers should ensure that the chemical name, CAS number, and intended use align with the scope of this heading. WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide further guidance on the classification of chemically defined organic compounds.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for HS 2937.50 under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS 2937.50 under various free trade agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs. For example, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or originating from Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary countries, may qualify for a 0.00% preferential duty rate. Similarly, within the EU, goods originating from FTA partners or GSP beneficiaries may also enter duty-free. Importers must ensure they meet the specific Rules of Origin requirements of the respective agreement and provide valid Certificates of Origin to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2937.50?
For goods classified under HS 2937.50, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Due to the nature of these chemical compounds, additional documentation is frequently required. This may include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify the chemical composition, purity, and specifications, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for hazardous materials, and potentially import permits or licenses from regulatory bodies such as the FDA in the United States or EMA in the EU, especially if the products are intended for pharmaceutical use. Customs brokers should confirm all specific national regulatory requirements prior to importation.