About HS Code 290516
This category includes octanol (octyl alcohol) and its various isomers, which are saturated monohydric alcohols with an eight-carbon chain. These alcohols are highly valued in the chemical industry for their versatility. They serve as intermediates in the production of plasticizers, particularly phthalates, which are used to enhance the flexibility of plastics. Additionally, octanols are key ingredients in the formulation of fragrances, cosmetics, and personal care products, where they act as emollients and solvents. They also find application as defoaming agents in industrial processes. Companies in the plastics, cosmetics, personal care, and specialty chemical sectors are the primary importers and exporters. Their moderate chain length gives them a balance of solubility and oiliness, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Products Under This Code
Dioctyl phthalate (DOP), fragrances, emollients, defoamers, flavorings, surfactants, lubricants
Real World Examples
BASF 1-Octanol, P&G (in cosmetic formulations), Firmenich (in fragrances), Sasol Octanol
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with other higher fatty alcohols (e.g., 290517 for dodecanol, hexadecanol) if the carbon chain length is not precisely specified as C8.
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 2905.16
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
Major trade flows involve countries with strong chemical and personal care industries, such as the US, Germany, and China, reflecting global demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290516?
HS code 290516 covers: Alcohols; saturated monohydric, octanol (octyl alcohol) and isomers thereof. This category includes octanol (octyl alcohol) and its various isomers, which are saturated monohydric alcohols with an eight-carbon chain. These alcohols are highly valued in the chemical industry for their versatility. They serve as intermediates in the production of plasticizers, particularly phthalates, which are used to enhance the flexibility of plastics. Additionally, octanols are key ingredients in the formulation of fragrances, cosmetics, and personal care products, where they act as emollients and solvents. They also find application as defoaming agents in industrial processes. Companies in the plastics, cosmetics, personal care, and specialty chemical sectors are the primary importers and exporters. Their moderate chain length gives them a balance of solubility and oiliness, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
What products fall under HS code 290516?
Dioctyl phthalate (DOP), fragrances, emollients, defoamers, flavorings, surfactants, lubricants
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290516?
Can be confused with other higher fatty alcohols (e.g., 290517 for dodecanol, hexadecanol) if the carbon chain length is not precisely specified as C8.
How is HS code 290516 structured?
HS code 290516 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 (16) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.