HS 900290 Other
Quick Answer: Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical, or surgical instruments and apparatus, and parts and accessories thereof, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 900290 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with rates varying significantly from Free to 65% ad valorem. This residual classification applies to items within Chapter 90 that do not fit more specific headings. Importers should exercise caution as the broad nature of "other" can lead to diverse tariff treatments across jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, thorough product description and supporting documentation are crucial for accurate classification and to avoid potential delays or penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9002902000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9002904000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9002909500 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 900290 | — | — | — |
| 9002908500 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 900290 cover?
This subheading covers "other" optical elements and instruments that are not specifically enumerated under the preceding subheadings of HS 9002. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, HS 900290 is a residual category for optical elements and parts and accessories thereof, not elsewhere specified or included within heading 9002. This includes items like specialized optical filters, prisms, or lenses not fitting prior descriptions, provided they are designed for use with instruments of heading 9002, such as photographic or cinematographic cameras, projectors, or other optical appliances. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database also confirm this residual nature, emphasizing that classification here is only appropriate when no other more specific provision applies.
What falls outside HS 900290?
The following products are excluded from HS 900290: optical elements and instruments that are specifically classified under other subheadings of heading 9002, such as objective lenses for cameras or projectors, or eyepieces. Furthermore, optical elements that are not designed for use with the instruments of heading 9002, such as standalone magnifying glasses (typically classified under 9013), or optical components for medical or surgical instruments (classified under Chapter 90, but in more specific headings), are also excluded. Simple glass or plastic sheets without specific optical properties for these instruments are generally not classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 900290?
A common error is classifying optical elements under HS 900290 when they are more specifically described in other subheadings of heading 9002 or in different headings altogether. For instance, a standard objective lens for a photographic camera, which would fall under a more specific subheading of 9002, might be incorrectly placed in 900290. This often arises from a misunderstanding of the hierarchical structure of the Harmonized System and the application of General Interpretative Rule 3(c), which prioritizes the heading and subheading that occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration.
How should importers classify products under HS 900290?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 900290 involves a thorough examination of the product's specific characteristics and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. If the optical element or instrument is not clearly defined in a more specific subheading of heading 9002, and it is designed for use with the apparatus mentioned in heading 9002, then classification under 900290 may be appropriate. Always verify if a more specific classification exists before resorting to the "other" category.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 900290?
A specialized optical prism, weighing 0.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) ad valorem duty rate of 5.00% published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 900290. The calculation is: 5.00% of $500 USD = $25.00. This example assumes no preferential trade agreements apply and that the product meets the criteria for classification under this residual subheading.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 900290?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 900290, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duties for eligible goods from developing countries, such as India. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical duty rates for HS code 900290, and how are preferential rates applied?
HS code 900290, classified as 'Other' lenses and optical elements, often has varying duty rates depending on the importing country. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements like USMCA or CAFTA-DR may also apply, potentially offering duty-free entry if rules of origin are met. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country and any relevant trade agreements to determine the applicable rate and eligibility for preferential treatment. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed information for these regions.
What are the classification criteria for items falling under HS code 900290?
HS code 900290 is a residual category for lenses and optical elements not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 90 of the Harmonized System. This includes items like specialized optical filters, prisms, or other optical components that are not lenses for cameras, projectors, or similar apparatus (9002.11, 9002.19), nor binoculars, monoculars, or other optical telescopes (9005), nor microscopes (9011). Classification relies on the absence of a more specific HS code and the item's function as an optical element.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 900290?
Standard import documentation for HS code 900290 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the specific nature of the optical element and the importing country's regulations, additional documentation may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates, technical specifications or datasheets to verify the item's optical properties, and potentially import licenses or permits if the item is subject to specific controls. Customs brokers should verify requirements with the destination country's customs authority.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 900290, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty depends on the specific duty rate applicable to HS code 900290 in the importing country. Duty rates can be ad valorem (a percentage of the item's value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if an importing country applies a 4.5% ad valorem duty rate to HS code 900290, and an importer declares goods valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.045 (duty rate) = $450 USD. If a specific duty rate applies, such as $5 per unit, and 100 units are imported, the duty would be 100 units × $5/unit = $500. Always confirm the exact duty rate and calculation method with the official tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 900290?
Major trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 900290. For example, goods originating from countries party to the European Union's trade agreements may benefit from reduced or zero duties under the EU TARIC system. Similarly, the United Kingdom's trade agreements, accessible via the UK Trade Tariff, can provide preferential rates. In North America, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer preferential treatment for qualifying goods. Importers must ensure their goods meet the specific rules of origin stipulated in these agreements to claim any associated tariff benefits.