HS Code Subheading

Aldehydes; acyclic, without other oxygen function, ethanal (acetaldehyde)

2912.12 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291212

Ethanal, or acetaldehyde, falls under this HS code and is a highly reactive organic compound crucial in the chemical industry. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of various chemicals, including acetic acid, pyridine derivatives, and several esters. It also finds niche applications in flavors and fragrances. Large chemical companies such as Celanese, Eastman, and Wacker are prominent players in its global trade. Importers are typically manufacturers of these downstream products, relying on acetaldehyde as a versatile building block. Its volatility and flammability necessitate stringent safety measures during storage, handling, and international transportation, making it a significant, though often unseen, component of global chemical commerce.

Products Under This Code

Acetic acid, pyridine, pentaerythritol, peracetic acid, butanol, ethyl acetate

Real World Examples

Celanese Acetaldehyde, Eastman Acetaldehyde, Wacker Acetaldehyde

Common Misclassification

Can be confused with other acyclic aldehydes (2912.19) or even its polymer, paraldehyde (2912.60), but its specific two-carbon structure is definitive for this classification.

Products Classified Under 2912.12

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Key trading nations include China, the USA, and Germany, reflecting its importance as a chemical intermediate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291212?

HS code 291212 covers: Aldehydes; acyclic, without other oxygen function, ethanal (acetaldehyde). Ethanal, or acetaldehyde, falls under this HS code and is a highly reactive organic compound crucial in the chemical industry. It serves as a key intermediate in the production of various chemicals, including acetic acid, pyridine derivatives, and several esters. It also finds niche applications in flavors and fragrances. Large chemical companies such as Celanese, Eastman, and Wacker are prominent players in its global trade. Importers are typically manufacturers of these downstream products, relying on acetaldehyde as a versatile building block. Its volatility and flammability necessitate stringent safety measures during storage, handling, and international transportation, making it a significant, though often unseen, component of global chemical commerce.

What products fall under HS code 291212?

Acetic acid, pyridine, pentaerythritol, peracetic acid, butanol, ethyl acetate

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291212?

Can be confused with other acyclic aldehydes (2912.19) or even its polymer, paraldehyde (2912.60), but its specific two-carbon structure is definitive for this classification.

How is HS code 291212 structured?

HS code 291212 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.