About HS Code 270720
This HS code specifically covers toluol, which is primarily toluene, obtained from the distillation of high-temperature coal tar. Toluene is another vital aromatic hydrocarbon, widely used as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, and printing inks. It is also a key precursor in the production of other chemicals, including benzene (via dealkylation), diisocyanates (for polyurethanes), and trinitrotoluene (TNT). Like benzene, toluene is a product of the complex refining process of crude coal tar. Countries with robust manufacturing sectors that utilize solvents or have significant chemical production capabilities are major importers. Exporters are typically nations with active coking industries and sophisticated chemical processing plants. The global trade in toluene is influenced by industrial demand, environmental regulations on volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the availability of alternative sources, particularly from petroleum refining, which is a more common source for toluene today.
Products Under This Code
Toluene, crude toluol, refined toluol, pure toluene, industrial grade toluene
Real World Examples
Shell Chemicals toluene, LyondellBasell toluene, BASF toluene, various coal tar distillers' toluene
Common Misclassification
This code is specifically for toluene derived from high-temperature coal tar, distinguishing it from toluene derived from petroleum (often under 290230 if pure, or other petroleum product codes if mixed). It's also distinct from crude coal tar (270600).
Products Classified Under 2707.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
China, the USA, and European countries are major consumers, with significant trade flows from producers in Asia and the Middle East (though often petroleum-derived).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 270720?
HS code 270720 covers: Oils and products of the distillation of high temperature coal tar; toluol (toluene). This HS code specifically covers toluol, which is primarily toluene, obtained from the distillation of high-temperature coal tar. Toluene is another vital aromatic hydrocarbon, widely used as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, and printing inks. It is also a key precursor in the production of other chemicals, including benzene (via dealkylation), diisocyanates (for polyurethanes), and trinitrotoluene (TNT). Like benzene, toluene is a product of the complex refining process of crude coal tar. Countries with robust manufacturing sectors that utilize solvents or have significant chemical production capabilities are major importers. Exporters are typically nations with active coking industries and sophisticated chemical processing plants. The global trade in toluene is influenced by industrial demand, environmental regulations on volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the availability of alternative sources, particularly from petroleum refining, which is a more common source for toluene today.
What products fall under HS code 270720?
Toluene, crude toluol, refined toluol, pure toluene, industrial grade toluene
What are common misclassifications for HS code 270720?
This code is specifically for toluene derived from high-temperature coal tar, distinguishing it from toluene derived from petroleum (often under 290230 if pure, or other petroleum product codes if mixed). It's also distinct from crude coal tar (270600).
How is HS code 270720 structured?
HS code 270720 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (27) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (07) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.