HS Code Subheading

Alcohols; polyhydric, glycerol

2905.45 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 290545

Glycerol, commonly known as glycerine, is a highly versatile polyhydric alcohol with extensive international trade, driven by its wide range of applications across numerous industries. It serves as a humectant, solvent, and sweetener, and is a crucial building block for various chemicals. Its global demand stems from the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and beverage, and chemical industries, particularly in the production of personal care products, processed foods, and alkyd resins. Key exporters include major chemical producers and biodiesel manufacturers (as a byproduct), while importers are diverse, ranging from consumer goods giants to specialized chemical formulators. Traders must differentiate between crude and refined grades (e.g., USP/EP grade) and understand the implications for purity and application. The market for glycerol is significantly influenced by the biodiesel industry, as it is a co-product, leading to price volatility based on biofuel production levels.

Products Under This Code

Refined glycerine USP, Crude glycerine, Vegetable glycerine, Synthetic glycerine, Glycerol monostearate

Real World Examples

Dow Glycerine, Wilmar International Glycerine, P&G Chemicals Glycerine, KLK Oleo Glycerine

Common Misclassification

Glycerol is distinct but can sometimes be broadly grouped with other polyhydric alcohols under 290549 if its specific identity is not clearly established. It's crucial to correctly classify glycerol here, given its unique chemical structure and widespread industrial importance, rather than as a general "other" polyol.

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 2905.45

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Indonesia, Malaysia, and Germany are leading exporters, while China, the USA, and India are major importers of glycerol.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 290545?

HS code 290545 covers: Alcohols; polyhydric, glycerol. Glycerol, commonly known as glycerine, is a highly versatile polyhydric alcohol with extensive international trade, driven by its wide range of applications across numerous industries. It serves as a humectant, solvent, and sweetener, and is a crucial building block for various chemicals. Its global demand stems from the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and beverage, and chemical industries, particularly in the production of personal care products, processed foods, and alkyd resins. Key exporters include major chemical producers and biodiesel manufacturers (as a byproduct), while importers are diverse, ranging from consumer goods giants to specialized chemical formulators. Traders must differentiate between crude and refined grades (e.g., USP/EP grade) and understand the implications for purity and application. The market for glycerol is significantly influenced by the biodiesel industry, as it is a co-product, leading to price volatility based on biofuel production levels.

What products fall under HS code 290545?

Refined glycerine USP, Crude glycerine, Vegetable glycerine, Synthetic glycerine, Glycerol monostearate

What are common misclassifications for HS code 290545?

Glycerol is distinct but can sometimes be broadly grouped with other polyhydric alcohols under 290549 if its specific identity is not clearly established. It's crucial to correctly classify glycerol here, given its unique chemical structure and widespread industrial importance, rather than as a general "other" polyol.

How is HS code 290545 structured?

HS code 290545 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 (45) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.