HS 340249 Other
Quick Answer: Organic surface-active agents, other than anionic, not put up for retail sale, imported under HS 340249 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.00%, and the US with varying rates including 4% ad valorem, duty-free for certain trade agreements, and a specific rate of 15.4¢/kg + 53.5% ad valorem. This classification applies to non-ionic and amphoteric surface-active agents not packaged for direct consumer use. Importers should verify the specific subheadings and applicable preferential rates in each jurisdiction, as CustomTariffs aggregates this data. Careful classification is crucial to avoid incorrect duty assessments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402490000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402490000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 340249 | — | — | — |
| 3402491000 | 4% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3402499000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 3402.49?
Imports of Other 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 14 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 340249 cover?
This subheading covers "Other" organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale, that are not specifically listed under subheadings 3402.41 to 3402.47. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category is a residual one for surface-active agents not fitting the criteria of anionic, cationic, or non-ionic agents. For instance, certain amphoteric surface-active agents, which exhibit properties of both acids and bases, would fall here if not otherwise specified. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database confirm this residual nature, emphasizing that classification depends on the absence of specific characteristics defining other subheadings within heading 3402.
What falls outside HS 340249?
The following products are excluded from HS 340249: specifically enumerated organic surface-active agents such as anionic (e.g., soaps, alkyl sulfates), cationic (e.g., quaternary ammonium compounds), and non-ionic (e.g., ethoxylated alcohols) surface-active agents, which are classified under subheadings 3402.41 through 3402.47. Also excluded are surface-active preparations and washing preparations containing soap or detergents, which are typically classified under heading 3401 or 3405. For example, a liquid laundry detergent with a high concentration of non-ionic surfactants would be classified elsewhere, not under this residual "Other" category.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 340249?
A common error is misinterpreting the "Other" designation as a catch-all for any surface-active agent not immediately recognized. This often leads to incorrect classification when the product actually possesses characteristics that would place it under a more specific subheading, such as anionic, cationic, or non-ionic. For instance, an amphoteric surfactant with a dominant anionic character might be mistakenly placed here. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c) for goods that cannot be classified by reference to GRI 3(a) or 3(b) is crucial, ensuring classification under the heading that provides the most specific description, which in this case would be one of the more defined subheadings within 3402 if applicable.
How should importers classify products under HS 340249?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 340249 involves a thorough analysis of the product's chemical composition and functional properties. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). If the product is an organic surface-active agent and does not meet the criteria for anionic, cationic, or non-ionic classification, then it may fall under this residual subheading. A detailed technical data sheet and a chemical breakdown of the product are essential for accurate determination, ensuring it is not specifically provided for elsewhere in heading 3402.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 340249?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of a specialized amphoteric surfactant, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 3402.49.0000, which is the specific US classification for "Other" organic surface-active agents.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 340249?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 340249, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, such as Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement is typically required for USMCA, while a GSP Form A or a country-specific origin declaration may be necessary for GSP benefits, depending on the importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 340249?
HS code 340249 covers 'Other' organic surface-active agents, prepared for retail sale or for use as an ingredient in the preparation of preparations. The duty rates can vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements (indicated by country codes such as A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG) are often listed as 'Free'. Some specific rates might be a combination, such as 15.4¢/kg + 53.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 340249 when a specific rate (e.g., 15.4¢/kg + 53.5%) applies?
When a compound duty rate applies, such as 15.4¢/kg + 53.5% ad valorem, the total duty is the sum of the specific duty (based on weight) and the ad valorem duty (based on value). For example, if you import 1000 kilograms of a product valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Specific Duty: 1000 kg * $0.154/kg = $154.00. Ad Valorem Duty: $5,000 USD * 53.5% = $2,675.00. Total Duty: $154.00 + $2,675.00 = $2,829.00. Always ensure you are using the correct currency conversion for the specific duty component if applicable.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 340249?
HS code 340249 is a residual category for organic surface-active agents that are not specifically covered by other subheadings within Chapter 34. The primary criteria for classification under 3402 are that the substances must be organic and possess surface-active properties. This includes anionic, cationic, non-ionic, and amphoteric surface-active agents. Crucially, for 340249, these agents must be prepared for retail sale or for use as an ingredient in the preparation of preparations, and they must not be specifically classified elsewhere in headings 3402.11 through 3402.41. Importers should review the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (HS) for Chapter 34 and the specific country's tariff rulings for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 340249?
Standard import documentation is generally required for goods classified under HS code 340249. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the product, quantity, value, and origin; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the surface-active agent, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include safety data sheets (SDS) to confirm chemical composition and potential hazards, or specific import permits if the product is subject to chemical control regulations. Consulting the customs authority of the importing country is recommended.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 340249?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing or eliminating duties, for goods classified under HS code 340249. Examples of trade agreements that frequently list 'Free' or significantly reduced rates for this code include agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (often under USMCA), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), the European Union (E), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), Mexico (often under USMCA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin.