About HS Code 290511
This HS code covers methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, a fundamental organic chemical traded globally. It serves as a crucial building block in the chemical industry, primarily used to produce formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various other chemicals. Methanol is also gaining prominence as a clean-burning fuel, a fuel additive, and a feedstock for biodiesel production, reflecting its versatility. Major importers and exporters are typically large chemical conglomerates, energy companies, and industrial manufacturers. Key things to know include its toxicity, its production from natural gas, coal, or increasingly, renewable sources (green methanol), and its role in the 'methanol economy' as a potential alternative to fossil fuels. Its widespread industrial applications make it a high-volume commodity in international trade.
Products Under This Code
Formaldehyde, acetic acid, MTBE, DME, biodiesel, solvents, antifreeze, fuel additive
Real World Examples
BASF Methanol, SABIC Methanol, OCI Methanol, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Methanol
Common Misclassification
Methanol can be confused with other primary alcohols, such as propanol (290512) or ethanol (220710), if not specifically identified as methyl alcohol. Its distinct chemical formula and primary uses differentiate it.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Products Classified Under 2905.11
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
Top exporters include Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago, and the US; top importers are China, India, and the EU due to their vast chemical industries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290511?
HS code 290511 covers: Alcohols; saturated monohydric, methanol (methyl alcohol). This HS code covers methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, a fundamental organic chemical traded globally. It serves as a crucial building block in the chemical industry, primarily used to produce formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various other chemicals. Methanol is also gaining prominence as a clean-burning fuel, a fuel additive, and a feedstock for biodiesel production, reflecting its versatility. Major importers and exporters are typically large chemical conglomerates, energy companies, and industrial manufacturers. Key things to know include its toxicity, its production from natural gas, coal, or increasingly, renewable sources (green methanol), and its role in the 'methanol economy' as a potential alternative to fossil fuels. Its widespread industrial applications make it a high-volume commodity in international trade.
What products fall under HS code 290511?
Formaldehyde, acetic acid, MTBE, DME, biodiesel, solvents, antifreeze, fuel additive
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290511?
Methanol can be confused with other primary alcohols, such as propanol (290512) or ethanol (220710), if not specifically identified as methyl alcohol. Its distinct chemical formula and primary uses differentiate it.
How is HS code 290511 structured?
HS code 290511 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (11) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.