HS Code Subheading

Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene)

2903.23 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 290323

Tetrachloroethylene, commonly known as perchloroethylene (PCE) or "perc," is a widely traded unsaturated chlorinated hydrocarbon primarily recognized for its use as a dry cleaning solvent and in metal degreasing. Its international trade involves chemical producers, dry cleaning supply companies, and industrial manufacturers. While its use in dry cleaning has faced increasing scrutiny and regulation in many countries due to environmental and health concerns, it remains a significant solvent in some regions and is also used as a chemical intermediate in the production of fluorocarbons. Key things to know include the ongoing regulatory pressures to reduce or eliminate its use, driving demand for alternative solvents. Importers and exporters must navigate complex hazardous materials regulations for transport and storage, as well as specific national and international restrictions on its application. The market is influenced by environmental policies and the development of greener alternatives.

Products Under This Code

Tetrachloroethylene, Perchloroethylene, PCE, Perc, Tetrachloroethene, Ethylene tetrachloride

Real World Examples

Dow Chemical Perchloroethylene, OxyChem Perchloroethylene, Solvay Perchloroethylene

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 290322 (trichloroethylene) due to similar solvent applications, but PCE contains four chlorine atoms compared to TCE's three.

Products Classified Under 2903.23

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, the United States, and Germany are major countries involved in the trade of tetrachloroethylene, serving industrial and dry cleaning sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 290323?

HS code 290323 covers: Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene). Tetrachloroethylene, commonly known as perchloroethylene (PCE) or "perc," is a widely traded unsaturated chlorinated hydrocarbon primarily recognized for its use as a dry cleaning solvent and in metal degreasing. Its international trade involves chemical producers, dry cleaning supply companies, and industrial manufacturers. While its use in dry cleaning has faced increasing scrutiny and regulation in many countries due to environmental and health concerns, it remains a significant solvent in some regions and is also used as a chemical intermediate in the production of fluorocarbons. Key things to know include the ongoing regulatory pressures to reduce or eliminate its use, driving demand for alternative solvents. Importers and exporters must navigate complex hazardous materials regulations for transport and storage, as well as specific national and international restrictions on its application. The market is influenced by environmental policies and the development of greener alternatives.

What products fall under HS code 290323?

Tetrachloroethylene, Perchloroethylene, PCE, Perc, Tetrachloroethene, Ethylene tetrachloride

What are common misclassifications for HS code 290323?

This code is often confused with 290322 (trichloroethylene) due to similar solvent applications, but PCE contains four chlorine atoms compared to TCE's three.

How is HS code 290323 structured?

HS code 290323 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 (23) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.