HS 293919 Other

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2939.19 'Other' can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate for MFN imports under this subheading, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database also indicates a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate for many products within this classification. However, some countries, particularly those with specific domestic industry protections or revenue generation goals, might apply higher rates. For instance, certain developing nations could apply rates such as 15.4¢/kg + 104% or other specific duties. Importers should always consult the official tariff schedule of the destination country for the precise and current duty rate.

HS 2939.19 is a residual subheading under HS 2939, which covers 'Alkaloids of opium and their derivatives; salts thereof.' The 'Other' subheading (2939.19) is intended for opium alkaloids and their derivatives, and salts thereof, that are not specifically enumerated in subheadings 2939.11 (Concentrates of poppy straw; buprenorphine (INN), codeine, dihydrocodeine (INN), ethylmorphine, etorphine (INN), heroin, hydrocodone (INN), hydromorphone (INN), morphine, nicomorphine (INN), oxycodone (INN), oxymorphone (INN), pholcodine (INN), thebacon (INN) and their salts) or 2939.12 (Noscapine and its salts; papaverine and its salts). Classification criteria primarily revolve around the chemical structure and origin as an opium alkaloid or derivative, and whether it is explicitly named elsewhere in the 4-digit or 6-digit heading. The World Customs Organization's Explanatory Notes provide guidance on the chemical identity and scope of alkaloids.

Due to the nature of opium alkaloids, products classified under HS 2939.19 are often subject to stringent controls. In addition to standard import documentation (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill), importers will almost certainly require specific permits and licenses from national drug control authorities. For example, in the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) requires import permits for controlled substances. Similar requirements exist in the EU (e.g., national competent authorities under Regulation (EC) No 111/2005) and the UK (Home Office). A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the substance's identity, purity, and concentration is also commonly required. Importers must ensure full compliance with both customs regulations and national drug control laws of the importing country.

Yes, preferential duty rates can apply to HS 2939.19 if the goods originate from a country with which the importing nation has a free trade agreement (FTA) or other preferential trade arrangement. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 'Free' (as in the US and EU for many items in this code), a preferential rate wouldn't offer further reduction. However, if a country applies a higher MFN rate, an FTA could reduce it to 0.00% or a lower preferential rate. Importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., EUR.1, NAFTA/USMCA Certificate) to claim preferential treatment. Specific agreements like the USMCA, EU's various FTAs (e.g., with Japan, Korea), or the UK's agreements with partner countries could offer preferential access, provided the rules of origin are met. It's crucial to verify the specific agreement and its rules of origin for the particular product and trade lane.