HS 320417 Pigments and preparations based thereon
Quick Answer: Pigments and preparations based thereon imported under HS 320417 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 6.5% (MFN). This classification covers synthetic organic coloring matter, including preparations based on these pigments, used to impart color to various materials such as plastics, paints, inks, and textiles. Importers should be aware of the significant duty variations across jurisdictions, with the US offering duty-free entry for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates and potential preferential treatments for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204170000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204170015 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204170019 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204170021 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3204170023 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204170000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204170010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204170015 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204170018 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3204170019 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204170415 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3204170405 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 320417 | — | — | — |
| 32041704 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 3204170420 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 3204.17?
Imports of Pigments 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, and 16 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 320417 cover?
This subheading covers synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon, specifically those classified as pigments. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes synthetic organic pigments that are insoluble in the medium in which they are applied, providing color through dispersion. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses a wide array of synthetic organic pigments used in paints, inks, plastics, and textiles, excluding those specifically listed elsewhere in Heading 3204.
What falls outside HS 320417?
The following products are excluded from HS 320417: coloring matter of vegetable or animal origin (which fall under other headings), inorganic pigments (such as titanium dioxide or iron oxides, typically classified in Heading 3206), and synthetic organic coloring matter that is soluble in the application medium, such as dyes (which are classified under HS 320411 to 320419, depending on their chemical nature). Preparations where the coloring matter is not the principal constituent, or where the preparation is for a specific use not primarily as a pigment, may also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320417?
A common error is the misclassification of soluble synthetic organic coloring matter (dyes) as pigments under HS 320417. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify inorganic pigments or preparations where the coloring matter is not the essential character. It is crucial to ascertain whether the coloring matter is soluble or insoluble in its intended application medium to correctly distinguish between dyes and pigments.
How should importers classify products under HS 320417?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320417 involves a multi-step process. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the precise chemical nature of the coloring matter, determining if it is synthetic organic and insoluble in its application medium. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff) is essential. If the product meets the criteria for synthetic organic pigments, it should be classified under 320417, provided it is not specifically excluded by a more specific subheading or heading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320417?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of Phthalocyanine Blue pigment, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 3.5% × $5,000 USD = $175.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 3204.17.0000, which covers synthetic organic pigments.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320417?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320417, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating pigments from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, for goods originating in countries that are beneficiaries of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, a GSP Form A may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates, which can significantly lower the import duties.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320417 (Pigments and preparations based thereon)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 320417 is generally 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, duties can be Free (0%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) under specific agreements. It is crucial to consult the relevant tariff schedule for the importing country to determine the exact rate applicable based on the origin of the goods.
How is the import duty for HS code 320417 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 320417 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of pigments valued at $10,000 USD enters a country with an MFN duty rate of 6.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.06 = $600 USD. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the WTO Valuation Agreement or the importing country's specific regulations.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 320417?
HS code 320417 covers 'Pigments and preparations based thereon'. This includes organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined, and preparations based on these coloring matters. Key classification criteria include whether the substance imparts color, its chemical composition (organic), and its form (e.g., powder, paste, liquid). Preparations are mixtures containing pigments, used for coloring, and may include binders, dispersants, or other additives. Exclusions typically apply to substances used primarily for medicinal, cosmetic, or food coloring purposes, which have their own specific HS codes.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 320417, and what documentation is needed?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 320417. Examples include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement), and agreements with countries like South Korea and Australia. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. The specific documentation requirements can vary by agreement and importing country.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and packing list for importing pigments under HS code 320417?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, importing pigments under HS code 320417 may require additional documentation depending on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the pigment. This can include a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing the pigment's chemical composition, purity, and properties, especially if it's a chemically defined organic pigment. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) may also be required to ensure compliance with chemical safety regulations. For goods claiming preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin is essential.