HS 293959 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 2939.59, "Other," encompasses a range of natural and reproduced ephedrine alkaloids and their derivatives not specifically classified elsewhere within heading 2939. This includes various salts and ethers of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and similar compounds, often used in pharmaceuticals. Importers and exporters should note the significant duty rate variations: the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty, while the US rate is "Free" for most favored nation (MFN) status but can be subject to additional duties, such as the 25% ad valorem rate under Section 301 for goods of Chinese origin, if applicable. Due to the controlled nature of these substances, strict regulatory compliance, including licensing and permits, is paramount across all jurisdictions.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939590000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939590000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939590000 | 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 293959 cover?
This subheading covers alkaloids of rye ergot and their derivatives, specifically those not elsewhere specified or included within Heading 2939. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 2939 encompasses "Vegetable alkaloids, natural or reproduced by synthesis, and their salts, ethers, esters and other derivatives." Subheading 2939.59 therefore acts as a residual category for ergot alkaloids and their derivatives that do not fall into more specific subheadings like 2939.51 (Ergometrine and its salts) or 2939.52 (Ergotamine and its salts). Examples include lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) precursors or other complex ergot-derived compounds not explicitly listed, as defined by the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and EU TARIC.
What falls outside HS 293959?
The following products are excluded from HS 293959: Ergometrine and its salts are specifically classified under HS 2939.51. Ergotamine and its salts are classified under HS 2939.52. Dihydroergotamine and its salts are classified under HS 2939.53. Furthermore, other vegetable alkaloids not derived from rye ergot, such as quinine (2939.20) or caffeine (2939.30), are also excluded and have their own specific subheadings within Heading 2939. Preparations containing these alkaloids in measured doses or put up for retail sale as medicaments are typically classified in Chapter 30, specifically Heading 3004, rather than Chapter 29, which covers isolated chemical compounds.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293959?
A common error is misclassifying specific ergot alkaloids or their derivatives that have their own dedicated subheadings within 2939.5. For instance, classifying ergometrine or ergotamine under 2939.59 instead of their precise codes (2939.51 and 2939.52, respectively) is a frequent mistake. This often occurs due to insufficient review of the full 8-digit or 10-digit tariff schedule. Another error involves classifying pharmaceutical preparations containing these alkaloids in 2939.59, when General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) or 6 would direct them to Chapter 30 if they are in measured doses or put up for retail sale as medicaments, as Chapter 29 is for distinct chemical compounds.
How should importers classify products under HS 293959?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 293959 involves a thorough review of the product's chemical identity and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the product is indeed an alkaloid or derivative of rye ergot. Next, they must meticulously check if the specific compound is explicitly named in any other subheading under 2939.5, such as 2939.51, 2939.52, or 2939.53. If the compound is not specifically enumerated elsewhere, and it meets the general description of an ergot alkaloid or derivative, then 2939.59 is the appropriate residual classification. Always consult the latest version of the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance, and obtain a chemical analysis report if the exact composition is uncertain.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for products classified under HS 2939.59 ('Other' theophylline and aminophylline; their derivatives; salts thereof)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS 2939.59 can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate (0.00% ad valorem) to products under this subheading, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database also indicates a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for most MFN imports into the EU. However, other countries may apply different rates, such as 25% ad valorem in certain jurisdictions. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country using the official national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
How is HS 2939.59 distinguished from other subheadings within heading 2939, particularly regarding 'theophylline and aminophylline; their derivatives; salts thereof'?
HS 2939.59 is the residual 'Other' subheading specifically for 'theophylline and aminophylline; their derivatives; salts thereof' that are not more specifically provided for in other subheadings under 2939.51 (Theophylline and aminophylline (INN); their derivatives; salts thereof) or 2939.52 (Ephedrine and its salts). Classification under 2939.59 requires that the substance is indeed a derivative or salt of theophylline or aminophylline, but does not fit the more precise descriptions of other dedicated subheadings. Importers must ensure the chemical name and structure of their product align with the scope of 'other' derivatives or salts of theophylline and aminophylline, consulting Section VI Notes and Chapter 29 Notes of the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) for precise interpretation.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that commonly impact imports under HS 2939.59?
Yes, preferential duty rates can significantly impact imports under HS 2939.59, depending on the country of origin and destination. For example, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may qualify for a 0.00% preferential duty rate, provided they meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the respective agreement. Similarly, the EU has numerous preferential trade agreements (e.g., with the UK, Japan, Canada) that could grant duty-free access. Importers should consult the specific trade agreement's text and origin rules to determine eligibility and ensure proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, is available.
What documentation is typically required for customs clearance of products classified under HS 2939.59?
For customs clearance of products under HS 2939.59, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Given the chemical nature of these products, additional documentation may be necessary: a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the chemical composition and purity, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazardous materials, and potentially a manufacturer's declaration confirming the specific derivative or salt. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or origin declaration is mandatory. Importers should also be aware of any specific import permits or licenses required by national health or drug regulatory authorities, as these are pharmaceutical-related substances.