HS Code Subheading

Paraformaldehyde

2912.60 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291260

Paraformaldehyde is a solid polymer of formaldehyde, typically appearing as a white crystalline powder. It is a highly versatile chemical traded globally as a convenient and stable source of formaldehyde, particularly when an anhydrous form is required or when handling gaseous formaldehyde is impractical. Major importers include manufacturers of resins, adhesives, plastics, disinfectants, and agricultural chemicals, as well as pharmaceutical companies. Exporters are typically large chemical producers with access to formaldehyde production. Key trade considerations include its purity, particle size, and stability, as it can depolymerize back into formaldehyde gas. Due to formaldehyde's toxicity, strict handling, storage, and regulatory compliance are paramount in its international trade. Its demand is closely linked to the construction, automotive, and agricultural sectors, where formaldehyde-based products are widely used.

Products Under This Code

Solid formaldehyde, Formaldehyde polymer, Disinfectant raw material, Resin precursor, Adhesive component, Pesticide intermediate, Pharmaceutical excipient

Real World Examples

BASF Paraformaldehyde, Celanese Paraformaldehyde, Sigma-Aldrich Paraformaldehyde, Merck KGaA Paraformaldehyde

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with formaldehyde solution (291211) if the solid polymeric form is not clearly distinguished. It could also be mistaken for other formaldehyde-based resins (Chapter 39) if its role as a precursor rather than a finished resin is not understood.

Products Classified Under 2912.60

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, Germany, the United States, and the Netherlands are major players in the global trade of paraformaldehyde.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291260?

HS code 291260 covers: Paraformaldehyde. Paraformaldehyde is a solid polymer of formaldehyde, typically appearing as a white crystalline powder. It is a highly versatile chemical traded globally as a convenient and stable source of formaldehyde, particularly when an anhydrous form is required or when handling gaseous formaldehyde is impractical. Major importers include manufacturers of resins, adhesives, plastics, disinfectants, and agricultural chemicals, as well as pharmaceutical companies. Exporters are typically large chemical producers with access to formaldehyde production. Key trade considerations include its purity, particle size, and stability, as it can depolymerize back into formaldehyde gas. Due to formaldehyde's toxicity, strict handling, storage, and regulatory compliance are paramount in its international trade. Its demand is closely linked to the construction, automotive, and agricultural sectors, where formaldehyde-based products are widely used.

What products fall under HS code 291260?

Solid formaldehyde, Formaldehyde polymer, Disinfectant raw material, Resin precursor, Adhesive component, Pesticide intermediate, Pharmaceutical excipient

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291260?

This code is often confused with formaldehyde solution (291211) if the solid polymeric form is not clearly distinguished. It could also be mistaken for other formaldehyde-based resins (Chapter 39) if its role as a precursor rather than a finished resin is not understood.

How is HS code 291260 structured?

HS code 291260 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 (60) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.