HS Code 29.13 – Aldehydes; halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives of products of heading no. 2912

HS code 2913 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Aldehydes; halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives of products of heading no. 2912. Heading 2913 specifically covers halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives of products of heading 2912 (aldehydes). This classification is a precise carve-out within Chapter 29, focusing on aldehydes that have undergone further chemical modification by the introduction of halogen atoms (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine), sulfonic acid groups (-SO3H), nitro groups (-NO2), or nitroso groups (-NO). These modifications significantly alter the chemical and physical properties of the parent aldehyde, leading to specialized applications. The scope of 2913 is strictly limited to derivatives of the aldehydes classified under 2912. This means the primary functional group must still be an aldehyde, but with one or more of the specified modifying groups present. Examples include chloral (trichloroacetaldehyde), 4-nitrobenzaldehyde, and various sulfonated benzaldehyde derivatives. These compounds are typically used as intermediates in the synthesis of dyes, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other fine chemicals, where the enhanced reactivity or specific electronic properties conferred by the modifying groups are crucial. Accurate classification under 2913 is critical for trade compliance, as these specialized derivatives can have different tariff rates, regulatory statuses, and safety requirements compared to their parent aldehydes or other oxygen-function organic compounds. Misclassification can lead to significant compliance issues, including incorrect duties, delays, or even product recalls, especially for substances with specific environmental or health regulations. As part of Chapter 29, this heading exemplifies the Harmonized System's granular approach to classifying organic chemicals based on their precise structural modifications, ensuring clarity and consistency in global chemical trade.

Chloral (Trichloroacetaldehyde), Chloral hydrate, 2,4-Dichlorobenzaldehyde, 4-Nitrobenzaldehyde, 3-Nitrobenzaldehyde, 2-Chlorobenzaldehyde, Bromal, Sulfonated benzaldehyde, Formylbenzenesulfonic acid, Nitrated vanillin, Halogenated cinnamaldehyde, Trichloroacetaldehyde, Nitrofurfural, Sulfonated formaldehyde derivatives (if aldehyde function remains primary), Dichloropropanal, Bromobenzaldehyde, Nitroacetaldehyde, Trifluoroacetaldehyde, Iodobenzaldehyde, Chloroacetaldehyde dimethyl acetal (if the aldehyde is the primary function), Dichloroisobutyraldehyde, Nitrosated salicylaldehyde, Sulfonated glutaraldehyde, Trichloroacetaldehyde monohydrate, Brominated benzaldehyde derivatives.

The primary misclassification risk for HS 2913 lies in confusing these derivatives with the parent aldehydes of HS 2912, or with other oxygen-function organic compounds (e.g., 2909, 2910, 2918). Traders often overlook the specific halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated modification, leading them to classify a derivative like chloral (trichloroacetaldehyde) simply as an aldehyde under 2912. Another common error is to place these compounds in headings for other functional groups if the modifying group (e.g., nitro) is mistakenly identified as the primary characteristic, rather than the modified aldehyde structure. Proper identification of both the aldehyde function and the specified derivative modification is crucial.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2913 in UN Comtrade data were China ($40M, 57% of world exports), India ($21M) and Germany ($4.3M). World exports came to about $70M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 2913 in UN Comtrade data were India ($23M, 34% of world imports), Japan ($13M) and Switzerland ($5.9M). World imports came to about $69M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 2913 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (13) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.