HS 294120 Streptomycins and their derivatives; salts thereof

Import duty rates for HS code 294120 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. However, other countries may have different rates. The UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 3.5% for goods originating from most countries, while the EU TARIC system shows a 0.00% duty for many origins. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty rate. Always verify if preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) apply, which could reduce or eliminate duties.

The duty calculation for HS code 294120 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). Let's assume a hypothetical scenario where a country applies a 3.5% ad valorem duty rate. If an importer brings in a shipment of streptomycin derivatives valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 USD × 3.5% = $350 USD. If the duty were specific, for instance, $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 500 kg, the duty would be 500 kg × $0.50/kg = $250 USD. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the destination country's customs authority.

HS code 294120 covers 'Streptomycins and their derivatives; salts thereof'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance. It specifically includes streptomycin, which is an antibiotic produced by the bacterium Streptomyces griseus. 'Derivatives' refer to compounds that are chemically derived from streptomycin, often through modification of its structure to alter its properties or efficacy. 'Salts thereof' includes various salt forms of streptomycin or its derivatives, which are commonly used for pharmaceutical formulation. Importers must ensure that the product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or other technical documentation clearly identifies the substance as streptomycin, a derivative, or a salt thereof, to justify classification under this heading.

When importing goods under HS code 294120, standard import documentation is required, which typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the nature of antibiotics, specific documentation may be mandated by health and pharmaceutical regulatory agencies in the importing country. This can include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing the chemical composition, purity, and manufacturing process. Depending on the country, a pharmaceutical import license, health certificate, or prior authorization from the Ministry of Health or equivalent body might be necessary. Customs brokers should advise importers to proactively check the specific regulatory requirements of the destination country's health authorities.

Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 294120. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from preferential duty rates, often 0.00%, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that the European Union has with third countries offer reduced or eliminated duties on pharmaceutical products, including antibiotics like streptomycin. To claim preferential treatment, importers must possess a valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or an origin declaration, as stipulated by the specific trade agreement. It is essential to consult the text of the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations to confirm eligibility and requirements.