About HS Code 290342
Difluoromethane, commonly known as HFC-32, is a saturated fluorinated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons that plays a crucial role in the modern refrigeration and air conditioning industry. It is primarily traded as a component in refrigerant blends (e.g., R-410A, R-407C) and increasingly as a pure refrigerant (R-32) due to its relatively lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to older HFCs like R-410A. Its trade involves major chemical producers, HVAC manufacturers, and refrigerant distributors. Key things to know include its growing importance as an environmentally friendlier alternative in the ongoing global phase-down of high-GWP HFCs under the Kigali Amendment. Importers and exporters must navigate evolving international and national regulations concerning HFCs, ensuring compliance with GWP reduction targets. The market is characterized by strong demand from the residential and commercial air conditioning sectors, driving innovation in refrigerant technology.
Products Under This Code
Difluoromethane, HFC-32, Methylene difluoride, R-32, Freon 32
Real World Examples
Daikin R-32, Chemours HFC-32, Honeywell HFC-32
Common Misclassification
This code could be confused with other HFCs or fluorinated derivatives, such as 290341 (trifluoromethane), but 290342 is specific to difluoromethane (HFC-32) with its distinct chemical structure and GWP.
Products Classified Under 2903.42
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, the United States, and Japan are leading countries in the production and trade of difluoromethane, reflecting its widespread use in HVAC systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290342?
HS code 290342 covers: Saturated fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; difluoromethane (HFC-32). Difluoromethane, commonly known as HFC-32, is a saturated fluorinated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons that plays a crucial role in the modern refrigeration and air conditioning industry. It is primarily traded as a component in refrigerant blends (e.g., R-410A, R-407C) and increasingly as a pure refrigerant (R-32) due to its relatively lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to older HFCs like R-410A. Its trade involves major chemical producers, HVAC manufacturers, and refrigerant distributors. Key things to know include its growing importance as an environmentally friendlier alternative in the ongoing global phase-down of high-GWP HFCs under the Kigali Amendment. Importers and exporters must navigate evolving international and national regulations concerning HFCs, ensuring compliance with GWP reduction targets. The market is characterized by strong demand from the residential and commercial air conditioning sectors, driving innovation in refrigerant technology.
What products fall under HS code 290342?
Difluoromethane, HFC-32, Methylene difluoride, R-32, Freon 32
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290342?
This code could be confused with other HFCs or fluorinated derivatives, such as 290341 (trifluoromethane), but 290342 is specific to difluoromethane (HFC-32) with its distinct chemical structure and GWP.
How is HS code 290342 structured?
HS code 290342 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 (42) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.