HS 381590 Other
Quick Answer: Preparations for the manufacture of catalysts or of prepared enzymes, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 381590 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at rates varying from Free to 40% depending on origin. This residual classification captures a diverse range of chemical preparations that act as catalysts or enzymes for industrial processes but do not fit into more specific headings. Importers should consult detailed tariff schedules, such as those available through CustomTariffs, to ascertain the precise duty rate applicable to their specific product and country of origin, as preferential rates significantly impact landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815900000 | — | — | — |
| 3815909000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3815909030 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3815909043 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3815909050 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815900000 | — | — | — |
| 3815909000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3815909043 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3815909080 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3815901000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815901000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 381590 | — | — | — |
| 3815902000 | 2.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3815903000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3815905000 | 5% | 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 3815.90?
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 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 381590 cover?
This subheading covers "prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries (including those consisting of mixtures of inorganic and organic substances), not elsewhere specified or included." According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category is a residual one for chemical preparations that do not fit into more specific headings within Chapter 38. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this as encompassing a wide array of specialized chemical mixtures used in various industrial applications, provided they are not otherwise classified.
What falls outside HS 381590?
The following products are excluded from HS 381590: prepared binders for foundry moulds or cores that are specifically classified under 3815.11 to 3815.19, and chemical products and preparations that have a more specific classification elsewhere in the Nomenclature. For example, pure chemical elements, simple inorganic or organic compounds, or mixtures that fall under headings like 3801 to 3814, or even finished goods like paints (Chapter 32) or adhesives (Chapter 35) are not to be classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 381590?
A common error is misclassifying complex chemical mixtures that have a more specific application or composition. For instance, a chemical preparation that acts primarily as a catalyst for a specific reaction might be more accurately classified under 3815.11 to 3815.19 if it meets the criteria for "prepared catalysts." Importers may also incorrectly assign products to this residual category when they should be classified under Chapter 29 (organic chemicals) or Chapter 30 (pharmaceuticals) if they meet those specific definitions, often overlooking General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3.
How should importers classify products under HS 381590?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 381590 involves a thorough review of the product's exact composition, intended use, and any specific properties. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. If a product is a chemical preparation not specifically listed or described in other headings of Chapter 38 or elsewhere in the tariff, and it fits the general description of "chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries," then 381590 is the appropriate subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 381590?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of a specialized industrial chemical preparation, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 3815.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 381590?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 381590, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may be eligible for a 0% duty rate. The top origin countries benefiting from such preferential rates could include Canada and Mexico. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required, which can be a self-certified origin statement provided by the exporter.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 381590, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 381590, covering 'Other preparations and charges for igniting or preparing combustible materials, not elsewhere specified or included,' generally faces Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates that can vary. For example, the USITC Schedule B indicates rates such as 6.00% and 6.50% ad valorem. Preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, under specific agreements (indicated by codes like A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG), the duty rate can be Free. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements.
How is the import duty for HS code 381590 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 381590 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of these preparations has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 6.50%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.065 = $650 USD. If the duty were based on a specific rate (e.g., per kilogram), the calculation would be rate per unit × quantity. Importers must ensure accurate valuation and classification to apply the correct duty rate.
What specific criteria determine if a product falls under HS code 381590 ('Other')?
HS code 381590 is a residual category. Products are classified here if they are preparations and charges used for igniting or preparing combustible materials, but do not fit into more specific headings within Chapter 38 of the Harmonized System (e.g., 3815.11 to 3815.19 for catalytic preparations). This includes items like fire starters, ignition pastes, or specialized chemical charges designed to facilitate combustion or prepare fuel. Classification relies on the product's function, composition, and the absence of a more precise classification elsewhere in the tariff schedule. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and national tariff rulings is crucial.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 381590?
Standard import documentation for HS code 381590 typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the product description, quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transport. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the 'preparations and charges,' additional documentation may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemical products, or specific import permits if the goods are subject to regulatory controls related to hazardous materials or environmental safety. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 381590?
Several major trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry, for goods classified under HS code 381590. Examples include agreements between the United States and countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others. The European Union also has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that may apply. Importers must confirm the specific origin of their goods and ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to benefit from these reduced or eliminated duties. The presence of preferential rates often depends on the specific country of export and the importing country's trade policy.