HS 988038 Classified in Chapter 38
Quick Answer: Products classified under HS 988038, which falls within Chapter 38 of the Harmonized System, are subject to varying duty rates depending on the importing jurisdiction. This chapter broadly covers "Miscellaneous chemical products." For instance, according to CustomTariffs, imports into the UK and EU under this code do not have sample rates readily available, indicating potential complexities or specific national interpretations. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific tariff schedules for the destination country to ascertain the precise duty rate and any associated requirements, as Chapter 38 encompasses a wide array of chemical preparations not elsewhere specified.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880380000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880380000 | — | — | — |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 988038 cover?
This subheading covers products classified within Chapter 38 of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS). Chapter 38, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and further elaborated in national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, pertains to "Miscellaneous chemical products." This broad category includes preparations and products of the chemical or allied industries not elsewhere specified or included, such as prepared binders for foundry moulds, anti-fouling preparations, prepared enzymes, and chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries not elsewhere specified. The scope is determined by the specific Chapter 38 headings and subheadings, referencing the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI).
What falls outside HS 988038?
The following products are excluded from HS 988038, as they are specifically classified in other chapters of the HS nomenclature. For instance, pure chemical elements and compounds (Chapter 28), medicinal products (Chapter 30), fertilizers (Chapter 31), and plastics and articles thereof (Chapter 39) are not covered. Products that are clearly identifiable as finished goods for specific industrial applications, such as paints (Chapter 32) or soaps (Chapter 34), are also typically excluded, even if they contain chemical components that might otherwise fall under Chapter 38. The principle of specific enumeration in the HS nomenclature takes precedence.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 988038?
A common error is misinterpreting the "miscellaneous" nature of Chapter 38, leading to the classification of products that have more specific headings elsewhere in the HS. For example, a complex chemical mixture that has a defined use and is covered by a more specific heading in Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) or Chapter 32 (Paints and Varnishes) might be incorrectly placed in Chapter 38. Adherence to GRI 1 and GRI 3 is crucial; GRI 1 dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, while GRI 3(a) prioritizes the most specific heading. Importers must carefully review the entire HS structure, not just Chapter 38.
How should importers classify products under HS 988038?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 988038 involves a systematic approach. First, identify the precise nature and composition of the product. Second, consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the relevant national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) for Chapter 38 and its constituent headings. Third, determine if the product fits the description of any specific heading within Chapter 38. If it does not, consider if it is excluded by virtue of being more specifically classified elsewhere. Importers and customs brokers should maintain detailed product specifications, ingredient lists, and intended use information to support their classification decisions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 988038?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of a prepared foundry binder, 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 duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for a relevant subheading within Chapter 38. It is imperative to verify the specific subheading and its associated duty rate for the exact product being imported.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 988038?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 988038, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. The top origin countries benefiting from such preferential rates for chemical products often include Canada and Mexico. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the value and specific product. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical duty rates for products classified under HS code 988038 (Chapter 38)?
Products classified under HS code 988038 fall within Chapter 38 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Miscellaneous chemical products.' Duty rates vary significantly by jurisdiction and the specific product within Chapter 38. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for many items in Chapter 38 can range from 0% to over 10% ad valorem. For specific rates, importers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC's HTS or the EU's TARIC database, referencing the precise 6-digit HS code and any applicable subheadings.
How is the duty calculated for an item classified under HS 988038?
The duty calculation for items in HS Chapter 38 depends on the specific product and the applicable duty rate, which can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value), specific (a fixed amount per unit), or a combination. For instance, if a chemical product classified under a specific 6-digit code within Chapter 38 has an ad valorem duty rate of 5% and its customs value is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 5% × $10,000 = $500. If the rate were specific, such as $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 2,000 kg, the duty would be $0.50/kg × 2,000 kg = $1,000. Always verify the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) and rate from the official tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 988038?
Importing goods classified under HS Chapter 38 generally requires standard international trade documentation, plus any specific requirements for the chemical products involved. Essential documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Depending on the specific chemical product, additional documentation may be mandated, such as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), import permits, licenses from regulatory bodies (e.g., EPA in the U.S. for certain chemicals), or certificates of analysis. Importers and customs brokers must consult the importing country's customs authority and relevant government agencies for a comprehensive list.
Do preferential duty rates apply to products in HS Chapter 38 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates can apply to products classified under HS Chapter 38 if they originate from countries that are signatories to specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs with the importing country. For example, goods from Canada or Mexico might receive preferential treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, typically a certificate of origin or declaration. Consulting the text of the applicable trade agreement and the importing country's customs regulations is crucial.
What are the key classification criteria for determining the correct 6-digit HS code within Chapter 38?
Classification within Chapter 38 is determined by the specific nature and composition of the chemical product. The General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, particularly GRI 1, state that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Chapter 38 covers 'Miscellaneous chemical products and preparations not elsewhere specified or included.' This means that if a chemical product is not specifically classified in another chapter (e.g., Chapter 28 for inorganic chemicals or Chapter 29 for organic chemicals), it may fall into Chapter 38. Classification often relies on the product's intended use, its chemical composition, and whether it is a finished product or a mixture. For precise classification, consulting the WCO's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country is essential.