HS 320412 Acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon
Quick Answer: Acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon, imported under HS 320412, enter the UK at 6.00% ad valorem, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of Free under the MFN tariff. This classification covers synthetic organic coloring matter specifically designed for dyeing protein fibers like wool and silk, as well as polyamide. Importers should be aware of potential variations in specific subheadings and any applicable anti-dumping duties or trade restrictions that may affect the final duty payable. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204120000 | — | — | — |
| 3204120017 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204120027 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204120037 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204120015 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204120000 | — | — | — |
| 3204120015 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204120017 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204120025 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204120027 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204120500 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3204121300 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3204121700 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3204123000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 32041250 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 3204.12?
Imports of Acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 320412 cover?
This subheading covers acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon, as well as mordant dyes and preparations based thereon. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, acid dyes are water-soluble anionic dyes typically applied from an acidic dyebath to polyamide, wool, silk, and modified acrylic fibers. Metallised acid dyes are those where the dye molecule has been complexed with a metal ion, often chromium or cobalt, to improve light and wash fastness. Preparations include mixtures of dyes or dyes with diluents or other additives intended for dyeing applications.
What falls outside HS 320412?
The following products are excluded from HS 320412: basic dyes (HS 320413), direct dyes (HS 320414), reactive dyes (HS 320415), vat dyes (HS 320416), disperse dyes (HS 320417), pigments (Chapter 32, Note 3), and natural dyes. For instance, indigo, a natural dye, is classified under HS 320490. Preparations of dyes for specific industrial uses not primarily for textile dyeing, such as inks for printing or coloring plastics, may also fall under different headings depending on their specific composition and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320412?
A common error is misclassifying preparations containing dyes. According to General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 and GIR 3(b) of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the essential character of the product. If a preparation's essential character is not that of a dye but rather a specific application (e.g., a printing ink), it should be classified accordingly. Importers may also mistakenly classify mordant dyes as acid dyes if the mordanting process is not clearly understood, leading to incorrect duty rates.
How should importers classify products under HS 320412?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320412 involves a thorough examination of the product's chemical composition, physical form, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC database. Reviewing the product's technical data sheet and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is crucial for identifying the dye type and any additives that might influence classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320412?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of premetallised acid dye, such as C.I. Acid Black 194, 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 value: 5.0% × $5,000 USD = $250.00. This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320412?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320412, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may enter the United States duty-free. For goods originating in Canada or Mexico, a valid Certificate of Origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from designated developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation requirements are jurisdiction-dependent.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320412 (Acid dyes)?
Import duty rates for HS code 320412, covering acid dyes and preparations based thereon, vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.5% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may show different rates depending on the specific product and origin. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. Always consult the relevant national tariff schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your import.
How is the import duty for HS 320412 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 320412 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if importing acid dyes valued at $10,000 USD into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 6.5%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.065 = $650. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination (e.g., 'compound duty'). Always verify the duty calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required when importing acid dyes under HS code 320412?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 320412 includes a commercial invoice detailing the product, quantity, value, and origin; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific application of the dyes (e.g., for food contact materials, textiles), additional certifications might be required, such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming the dye's composition and purity, or compliance with specific chemical regulations (e.g., REACH in the EU). It is crucial to consult the importing country's customs regulations and the relevant government agencies.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 320412 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available for HS code 320412 depending on the origin of the goods and the trade agreements in place between the exporting and importing countries. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the EU might benefit from reduced or zero duties. Similarly, imports into the US from countries with FTAs like USMCA may have preferential rates. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation (e.g., a Certificate of Origin) to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key criteria to distinguish acid dyes (320412) from other dye classifications?
HS code 320412 specifically covers 'Acid dyes, whether or not premetallised, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon'. Acid dyes are typically water-soluble anionic dyes that are applied from an acidic dyebath. They are primarily used for dyeing nitrogen-containing fibers like wool, silk, nylon, and modified acrylics. Mordant dyes require a mordant (usually a metallic salt) to fix the dye to the fiber. The classification hinges on the chemical nature and application method of the dye. If a dye does not meet these criteria (e.g., it's a reactive dye, direct dye, or vat dye), it would fall under a different HS code within Chapter 32.