HS Code Subheading

Alcohols; cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic and derivatives, menthol

2906.11 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 290611

This HS code covers cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic alcohols and their derivatives, specifically focusing on menthol. Menthol is a key ingredient in a vast array of consumer products due to its cooling sensation and distinctive aroma. In international trade, it's primarily imported and exported by pharmaceutical companies for cough and cold remedies, confectionery manufacturers for candies and chewing gum, and cosmetic firms for oral hygiene products and topical pain relievers. The trade often involves bulk shipments of L-menthol crystals, both natural (derived from peppermint oil) and synthetic. Key things to know include the purity requirements for different applications (e.g., pharmaceutical vs. food grade) and the impact of agricultural yields on natural menthol prices. Major players are often large chemical producers and flavor & fragrance houses.

Products Under This Code

L-Menthol crystals, Synthetic menthol, Peppermint oil (menthol content), Menthol powder, D-Menthol, Racemic menthol

Real World Examples

Vicks VapoRub, Halls cough drops, Wrigley's Spearmint gum, Carmex lip balm, Tiger Balm

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with 3004.90 (medicaments containing menthol) if the product is a finished pharmaceutical, or 3301.25 (peppermint oil) if traded as an essential oil rather than isolated menthol.

Products Classified Under 2906.11

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

India, China, and the USA are major producers and consumers, with significant trade flows between them and Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 290611?

HS code 290611 covers: Alcohols; cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic and derivatives, menthol. This HS code covers cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic alcohols and their derivatives, specifically focusing on menthol. Menthol is a key ingredient in a vast array of consumer products due to its cooling sensation and distinctive aroma. In international trade, it's primarily imported and exported by pharmaceutical companies for cough and cold remedies, confectionery manufacturers for candies and chewing gum, and cosmetic firms for oral hygiene products and topical pain relievers. The trade often involves bulk shipments of L-menthol crystals, both natural (derived from peppermint oil) and synthetic. Key things to know include the purity requirements for different applications (e.g., pharmaceutical vs. food grade) and the impact of agricultural yields on natural menthol prices. Major players are often large chemical producers and flavor & fragrance houses.

What products fall under HS code 290611?

L-Menthol crystals, Synthetic menthol, Peppermint oil (menthol content), Menthol powder, D-Menthol, Racemic menthol

What are common misclassifications for HS code 290611?

This code can be confused with 3004.90 (medicaments containing menthol) if the product is a finished pharmaceutical, or 3301.25 (peppermint oil) if traded as an essential oil rather than isolated menthol.

How is HS code 290611 structured?

HS code 290611 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (06) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (11) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.