HS 382600 Fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, containing by weight 96,5 % or more of esters (FAMAE)
Quick Answer: Fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, containing by weight 96.5% or more of esters (FAMAE) imported under HS 382600 enters the UK at 6.50%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 6.5% under the MFN rate, with some trade agreements offering duty-free entry into the US. This classification primarily covers biodiesel, a renewable fuel derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. Importers should be aware of potential specific labeling or certification requirements depending on the end-use and jurisdiction. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist with compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3826001000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001029 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001059 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001099 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826009011 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3826001050 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826009019 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3826001029 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 382600 | — | — | — |
| 3826003000 | 6.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3826001000 | 4.6% | 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 3826.00?
Imports of Fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, containing by weight 96,5 % or more of esters (FAMAE) 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 17 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 382600 cover?
This subheading covers fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters (FAMAE) containing by weight 96.5% or more of esters. These are primarily biodiesel, which is a fuel derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. The World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Nomenclature defines these esters as products obtained from the transesterification of fats and oils with a mono-alkyl alcohol, such as methanol or ethanol. Official tariff schedules, like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC, confirm this scope, often specifying that the mono-alkyl esters must be derived from saturated or unsaturated fatty acids. For example, methyl esters of fatty acids are typically classified here.
What falls outside HS 382600?
The following products are excluded from HS 382600: crude vegetable oils or animal fats, which are classified in Chapter 15; fatty acids themselves (Chapter 29); glycerol (Chapter 29); and mixtures of fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters with a lower ester content than 96.5% by weight, which may fall under other headings depending on their primary characteristics or intended use. For instance, lubricating oils containing a small percentage of FAMAE would be classified under their respective lubricant headings in Chapter 27, not under 382600.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 382600?
A common error is misinterpreting the 96.5% ester content threshold. Products with a lower ester concentration, even if primarily composed of fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, may not qualify for this subheading. For example, if a product is a blend intended for a specific industrial application and the ester content is below 96.5%, it might be classified under Chapter 34 as a soap or detergent, or under Chapter 27 as a fuel additive, based on General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) or 3(c) if it's a composite good or mixture. Incorrectly classifying crude oils or unreacted components as FAMAE is also a frequent mistake.
How should importers classify products under HS 382600?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 382600 involves a thorough analysis of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a detailed Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer that specifies the exact percentage of fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters. This CoA should be cross-referenced with the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and any technical documentation. If the ester content meets or exceeds 96.5% by weight, and the product is indeed a mono-alkyl ester of fatty acids, then HS 382600 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 382600?
A shipment of 10,000 liters of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) biodiesel, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) assigns a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free (0%) to HS code 382600. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $15,000 USD = $0.00 USD. This applies to imports from countries not benefiting from specific trade agreements that might offer additional duty reductions or exemptions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 382600?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 382600, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which provides for Free entry for originating goods. Countries that benefit from this agreement include Canada and Mexico. For imports into the European Union, the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with various African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries can also lead to preferential rates, often Free. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a Movement Certificate (e.g., EUR.1) is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and originating country.
```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 382600 (Fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 382600 is generally 6.50% ad valorem in many major markets. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this duty. For example, under certain trade agreements, countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may offer duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to 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. Always refer to official sources such as the USITC, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 382600?
HS code 382600 specifically covers 'Fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, containing by weight 96,5 % or more of esters (FAMAE)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical composition. The product must be an ester derived from fatty acids and an alcohol (mono-alkyl ester). Crucially, the product must contain 96.5% or more of these esters by weight. Products not meeting this purity threshold, or those that are not fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters, would be classified elsewhere. For instance, biodiesel, which is a mixture of fatty-acid methyl esters (FAME), is often classified under this code if it meets the 96.5% ester content requirement. Importers should ensure their product's Certificate of Analysis (CoA) clearly states the ester content and composition to support the classification.
How is the import duty for HS 382600 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 382600 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.50% and you import 10,000 kilograms of fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters with a declared customs value of $1.50 per kilogram, the total value is $15,000 (10,000 kg * $1.50/kg). The duty amount would be $975 (6.50% of $15,000). In some jurisdictions, duties might also be applied on a per-unit basis (e.g., per liter or per kilogram), or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the specific duty calculation method for the importing country.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 382600?
When importing fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters under HS code 382600, standard import documentation is required, which typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, to substantiate the classification and ensure compliance, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is highly recommended. The CoA should clearly detail the product's chemical composition, specifically confirming the percentage of fatty-acid mono-alkyl esters (at least 96.5% by weight) and the type of fatty acids and alkyl groups present. Depending on the importing country and the intended use of the product (e.g., fuel, industrial chemical), further specific declarations or permits related to environmental regulations, safety standards, or commodity-specific requirements may be necessary. Consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 382600, and how can importers leverage them?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often including duty-free entry, for products classified under HS 382600. Examples include agreements between the US and countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Singapore (SG), and South Korea (KR), as well as agreements within the EU and the UK's trade arrangements. To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure the goods originate from a country that is a party to the relevant trade agreement. This requires a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporter or manufacturer, or a declaration of origin on the invoice, depending on the agreement's rules. Importers and their customs brokers must meticulously check the 'Rules of Origin' for the specific trade agreement to confirm eligibility and ensure all documentation requirements are met to claim preferential treatment and avoid paying the standard MFN duty rate.