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29
Tariff Chapter 29
Węglowodory alifatyczne
What does heading 2901 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 2901 covers acyclic hydrocarbons. These products belong to Chapter 29 of the Combined Nomenclature covering organic chemicals. They are used as raw materials and intermediates in the chemical, pharmaceutical, agrochemical, cosmetics and many other industries. Import of organic chemicals of heading 2901 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 6.5%. REACH registration and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are required. Chemical substances are subject to classification and labelling under the CLP regulation. Heading 2901 is part of Chapter 29 (chemical industry products, pharmaceuticals and fertilizers) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 2901 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 2901 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 2901
Import of organic chemicals of heading 2901 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 6.5%. REACH registration and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are required. Substances of heading 2901 require REACH registration before being placed on the EU market. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and labelling compliant with the CLP regulation are required. Duty rates on organic chemicals range from 0% to 6.5% depending on the subheading. Check whether the substance is a drug precursor or dual-use good. When importing goods under heading 2901 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 2901 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system). Goods under heading 2901 are subject to REACH, CLP and GHS controls. Required documentation includes: Safety Data Sheets (SDS), ECHA registration, GMP certificates (for pharmaceuticals). In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.
Classification of goods under heading 2901 — key considerations
Heading 2901 covers acyclic hydrocarbons. Methane, ethane, propylene, butylene, acetylene: 2901. Aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene): 2902, not 2901. Cyclic hydrocarbons (cyclohexane): 2902. Key distinction: 2901 = chain (acyclic), 2902 = ring (cyclic). Hydrocarbon gases as fuel: 2711, not 2901. Common error: ethylene (2901) vs styrene (2902, has ring).
Frequently asked questions
What duty rates apply to acyclic hydrocarbons (heading 2901)?
Imports of acyclic hydrocarbons into the EU (heading 2901) are subject to a 0% duty rate. This heading covers saturated and unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons: ethane, ethylene, propylene, butylene and acetylene. These are key petrochemical feedstocks. Ethylene and propylene as primary monomers for plastics production are among the most important chemicals imported into the EU. The zero duty rate reflects the strategic importance of these raw materials for European chemical industry. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and regulations apply to importing acyclic hydrocarbons?
Importing acyclic hydrocarbons requires REACH registration under Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 and a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). CLP labelling per Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 is mandatory. Most acyclic hydrocarbons are flammable, requiring ADR/IMDG transport documentation. For food-contact applications, compliance with food contact material regulations is required. Precursor substances may be subject to additional controls. Import quantity declarations may be required for trade statistics purposes. This applies to goods classified under heading 2901 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing acyclic hydrocarbons?
Acyclic hydrocarbons are flammable gases or liquids requiring pressurised or refrigerated tank transport. Ethylene and propylene are shipped as liquefied gases. Transport follows ADR/IMDG Class 2 (gases) or Class 3 (flammable liquids) rules. Terminals with specialised handling infrastructure are necessary. Imports are typically handled by petrochemical plants with their own port infrastructure and pipeline connections. Dedicated gas carriers or chemical tankers are used for maritime transport. This applies to goods classified under heading 2901 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
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