About HS Code 290220
Benzene is a fundamental aromatic hydrocarbon, serving as a cornerstone feedstock for a vast array of petrochemicals, including styrene, cumene, cyclohexane, and aniline. Its international trade is massive, driven by the global demand for plastics (polystyrene, polycarbonate), synthetic fibers (nylon), and various industrial chemicals. Major exporters include countries with large refining and petrochemical complexes, such as South Korea, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, which produce benzene from naphtha cracking or catalytic reforming. Key importers are industrial powerhouses like China, India, and European nations with significant downstream manufacturing capabilities. Benzene is transported in bulk via tankers and pipelines. Due to its carcinogenic nature, strict safety and environmental regulations govern its handling and transport. Its market price is highly sensitive to crude oil prices, naphtha cracking margins, and the demand for its derivatives.
Products Under This Code
Benzene, Industrial-grade benzene, Pure benzene, Benzene for styrene production, Benzene for cumene production, Benzene for cyclohexane production
Real World Examples
ExxonMobil Chemical (producer), SABIC (producer), LG Chem (producer), Sinopec (producer), BASF (producer)
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 290230 (toluene) or 29024x (xylenes) due to their similar aromatic structures. The key distinction is the lack of methyl groups on the benzene ring. Also, sometimes confused with 290211 (cyclohexane) if its aromaticity is overlooked.
Products Classified Under 2902.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
South Korea, the United States, and Saudi Arabia are major exporters, while China, India, and Belgium are significant importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290220?
HS code 290220 covers: Cyclic hydrocarbons; benzene. Benzene is a fundamental aromatic hydrocarbon, serving as a cornerstone feedstock for a vast array of petrochemicals, including styrene, cumene, cyclohexane, and aniline. Its international trade is massive, driven by the global demand for plastics (polystyrene, polycarbonate), synthetic fibers (nylon), and various industrial chemicals. Major exporters include countries with large refining and petrochemical complexes, such as South Korea, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, which produce benzene from naphtha cracking or catalytic reforming. Key importers are industrial powerhouses like China, India, and European nations with significant downstream manufacturing capabilities. Benzene is transported in bulk via tankers and pipelines. Due to its carcinogenic nature, strict safety and environmental regulations govern its handling and transport. Its market price is highly sensitive to crude oil prices, naphtha cracking margins, and the demand for its derivatives.
What products fall under HS code 290220?
Benzene, Industrial-grade benzene, Pure benzene, Benzene for styrene production, Benzene for cumene production, Benzene for cyclohexane production
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290220?
Can be confused with 290230 (toluene) or 29024x (xylenes) due to their similar aromatic structures. The key distinction is the lack of methyl groups on the benzene ring. Also, sometimes confused with 290211 (cyclohexane) if its aromaticity is overlooked.
How is HS code 290220 structured?
HS code 290220 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.