About HS Code 290321
Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), or chloroethylene, is a critically important chemical in global trade, almost exclusively used as the primary building block for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. Its trade is dominated by large petrochemical companies that produce VCM and then polymerize it into PVC, or supply it to other PVC manufacturers. Key things to know about VCM trade include its highly volatile and flammable nature, requiring specialized and secure transportation and storage. The market for VCM is directly linked to the demand for PVC, which is extensively used in construction (pipes, window frames), automotive parts, medical devices, and packaging. Importers and exporters must adhere to stringent safety regulations, environmental controls, and industrial standards due to its hazardous properties and carcinogenic classification. Global infrastructure development and consumer goods demand are major drivers for VCM production and trade.
Products Under This Code
Vinyl chloride monomer, Chloroethylene, VCM, Monochloroethylene, Chloroethene
Real World Examples
Shin-Etsu VCM, Westlake Chemical VCM, Formosa Plastics VCM
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from its saturated counterpart, 290315 (ethylene dichloride), which is a precursor to VCM, and should not be confused with other unsaturated chlorinated derivatives like 290322 (trichloroethylene).
Products Classified Under 2903.21
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, the United States, and Saudi Arabia are leading countries in the production and trade of vinyl chloride, driven by their large PVC industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290321?
HS code 290321 covers: Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; vinyl chloride (chloroethylene). Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), or chloroethylene, is a critically important chemical in global trade, almost exclusively used as the primary building block for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. Its trade is dominated by large petrochemical companies that produce VCM and then polymerize it into PVC, or supply it to other PVC manufacturers. Key things to know about VCM trade include its highly volatile and flammable nature, requiring specialized and secure transportation and storage. The market for VCM is directly linked to the demand for PVC, which is extensively used in construction (pipes, window frames), automotive parts, medical devices, and packaging. Importers and exporters must adhere to stringent safety regulations, environmental controls, and industrial standards due to its hazardous properties and carcinogenic classification. Global infrastructure development and consumer goods demand are major drivers for VCM production and trade.
What products fall under HS code 290321?
Vinyl chloride monomer, Chloroethylene, VCM, Monochloroethylene, Chloroethene
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290321?
This code is distinct from its saturated counterpart, 290315 (ethylene dichloride), which is a precursor to VCM, and should not be confused with other unsaturated chlorinated derivatives like 290322 (trichloroethylene).
How is HS code 290321 structured?
HS code 290321 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (03) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.