HS 293962 Ergotamine (INN) and its salts
Quick Answer: Ergotamine (INN) and its salts imported under HS 293962 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free (MFN) or 25% (general). This classification covers ergotamine, a naturally occurring alkaloid derived from ergot fungi, and its various salt forms. These compounds are primarily used in pharmaceutical preparations, notably for treating migraines and postpartum hemorrhage. Importers should be aware of potential specific import restrictions or licensing requirements due to the medicinal nature of these substances, which may vary by country. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty rate information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939620000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939620000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2939620000 | 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 293962 cover?
This subheading covers ergotamine (International Nonproprietary Name - INN) and its salts, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. This includes both the naturally occurring alkaloid derived from ergot fungi and its various salt forms, which are primarily used in pharmaceutical preparations for treating migraines and postpartum hemorrhage. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm the scope of this classification.
What falls outside HS 293962?
The following products are excluded from HS 293962: other ergot alkaloids not specifically ergotamine or its salts, such as ergometrine or ergonovine, which may fall under different subheadings within HS 2939. Additionally, finished pharmaceutical products containing ergotamine or its salts as an active ingredient, but which are presented in dosage forms for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, are typically classified under Chapter 30 of the HS, not Chapter 29. Crude ergot fungus itself would also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 293962?
A common error is misclassifying finished pharmaceutical preparations containing ergotamine salts under this subheading instead of Chapter 30, which is intended for medicinal preparations. This often occurs when the focus is solely on the chemical identity rather than the product's presentation and intended use. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System is crucial, ensuring that the essential character of the good, as a finished medicinal product, dictates its classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 293962?
The correct procedure for classifying ergotamine and its salts under HS 293962 involves first identifying the substance as ergotamine or a salt thereof. Importers and customs brokers must consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the precise wording of the subheading. Verification of the product's chemical identity and its form (i.e., not a finished pharmaceutical preparation) is paramount before declaring it under this code.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 293962?
A shipment of 10 kilograms of Ergotamine Tartrate, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $5,000 USD = $250.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) under subheading 2939.62.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 293962?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 293962, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries. Under USMCA, originating ergotamine and its salts from Canada or Mexico would be Free. For GSP beneficiaries, preferential rates can be as low as Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP claims, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 293962, covering Ergotamine and its salts?
Import duty rates for HS code 293962, 'Ergotamine (INN) and its salts', vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is Free. In the European Union, as per TARIC, the rate can be 0.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may apply, potentially reducing or eliminating duties. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the import duty for Ergotamine (HS 293962) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 293962 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). Assuming a hypothetical ad valorem rate of 3.5% and an imported value of $10,000 USD for Ergotamine, the duty would be calculated as: 3.5% of $10,000 = $350 USD. If a specific duty applied, for instance, $10 per kilogram, and you imported 50 kilograms, the duty would be 50 kg * $10/kg = $500 USD. The specific method and rate are found in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What specific criteria define a substance for classification under HS code 293962, 'Ergotamine (INN) and its salts'?
HS code 293962 specifically covers Ergotamine, which is a naturally occurring alkaloid derived from the ergot fungus (Claviceps purpurea), and its salts. The International Nonproprietary Name (INN) 'Ergotamine' is a key identifier. Classification hinges on the chemical identity of the substance. Importers must ensure that the product being imported is indeed Ergotamine or a recognized salt thereof. Analytical documentation, such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, is often required to verify the chemical composition and confirm it meets the criteria for this specific HS code. This distinguishes it from other ergot alkaloids or related compounds.
What documentation is typically required when importing Ergotamine and its salts (HS 293962)?
When importing Ergotamine and its salts under HS code 293962, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Crucially, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is often mandatory to verify the chemical identity and purity of the substance, confirming it is Ergotamine or its salt. Depending on the importing country and the intended use of Ergotamine (e.g., pharmaceutical), additional permits or licenses from health authorities (like the FDA in the US or EMA in the EU) may be necessary. Customs brokers should verify these specific requirements with the relevant government agencies in the destination country.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for Ergotamine (HS 293962)?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 293962 may be available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, if importing into the United States from a country with an active FTA (e.g., USMCA for Mexico and Canada, though Ergotamine's origin would be key), preferential rates might apply if the product meets the rules of origin. Similarly, within the European Union, the Common Customs Tariff generally applies, but specific agreements with third countries or territories could offer reduced rates. The UK benefits from numerous FTAs post-Brexit. Importers and customs brokers must consult the specific FTA provisions and rules of origin for the relevant trade bloc and the exporting country to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.