HS Code 29.14 – Ketones and quinones; whether or not with other oxygen function, and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrostated derivatives

HS code 2914 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Ketones and quinones; whether or not with other oxygen function, and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrostated derivatives. Heading 2914 covers ketones and quinones, whether or not with other oxygen function, and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. This classification encompasses a vast array of organic compounds characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms (ketones), or cyclic diketones (quinones). Ketones are highly versatile, serving as excellent solvents, crucial chemical intermediates, and key components in the fragrance, flavor, and pharmaceutical industries. The scope of 2914 is broad, ranging from simple aliphatic ketones like acetone and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) to cyclic ketones such as cyclohexanone, and complex aromatic ketones like acetophenone and benzophenone. Quinones, which are cyclic diketones (e.g., anthraquinone, p-benzoquinone), are also explicitly included. The phrase 'whether or not with other oxygen function' allows for compounds like diacetone alcohol (a hydroxy-ketone) to be classified here. Furthermore, the heading extends to halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives, covering chemically modified versions with altered properties for specialized applications, such as bromocamphor or nitrated acetophenone. Accurate classification under 2914 is paramount for trade compliance, influencing tariff rates, safety data sheet requirements, and adherence to environmental regulations concerning volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for solvent ketones. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, penalties, or non-compliance with chemical control laws. Historically, ketones have been indispensable in synthetic organic chemistry and industrial processes. As a core part of Chapter 29, 'Organic Chemicals,' this heading plays a vital role in organizing and regulating the global trade of these fundamental and widely utilized chemical compounds, ensuring clarity and consistency in customs procedures.

Acetone, Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Cyclohexanone, Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), Camphor, Menthone, Acetophenone, Benzophenone, Anthraquinone, p-Benzoquinone, Hydroquinone, Isophorone, Diacetone alcohol, Chloroacetone, Bromocamphor, Nitrated acetophenone, Fluorenone, Chalcone, 4-Hydroxyacetophenone, Methyl vinyl ketone, Naphthoquinone, Dimethyl ketone, Cyclopentanone, Propiophenone, Vanillyl methyl ketone.

A common error when classifying under HS 2914 is confusing ketones with aldehydes (HS 2912), as both contain a carbonyl group. The key distinction is that ketones have two carbon atoms bonded to the carbonyl carbon, while aldehydes have at least one hydrogen. Another frequent mistake is misclassifying quinones, which are cyclic diketones, with other cyclic hydrocarbons (HS 2902) or phenols (HS 2907) if their diketone structure is not correctly identified. Furthermore, compounds with 'other oxygen function' or derivatives (e.g., halogenated ketones) might be incorrectly placed in other oxygenated organic compound headings (e.g., 2909, 2918) if the primary ketone or quinone nature is overlooked.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2914 in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.8B, 32% of world exports), India ($612M) and Germany ($545M). World exports came to about $5.7B, 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 2914 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($818M, 13% of world imports), India ($569M) and China ($484M). World imports came to about $6.2B, 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 2914 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (14) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.