HS Code Subheading

Ketones; acyclic, without other oxygen function, butanone (methyl ethyl ketone)

2914.12 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291412

Butanone, commonly known as Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), is another significant acyclic ketone, widely traded as a powerful and fast-evaporating solvent. Its excellent solvency properties make it indispensable in various industrial applications, particularly in coatings, adhesives, printing inks, and as a dewaxing agent in petroleum refining. Major importers include manufacturers of paints, varnishes, glues, and printing inks, as well as companies in the automotive and construction sectors. Exporters are typically large petrochemical producers, often co-producing MEK with other chemicals. Key trade considerations include purity specifications, packaging for bulk or smaller quantities, and strict adherence to hazardous materials transportation and storage regulations due to its flammability and volatility. Global demand for MEK is influenced by industrial manufacturing activity, particularly in the automotive, construction, and packaging industries.

Products Under This Code

MEK solvent, Paint and varnish remover, Adhesive solvent, Printing ink solvent, Dewaxing agent, Chemical intermediate, Cleaning fluid, PVC cement solvent

Real World Examples

ExxonMobil MEK, Shell Chemicals MEK, Sasol MEK, INEOS MEK

Common Misclassification

This code is specific to butanone (MEK); it might be confused with acetone (291411) or other acyclic ketones (291419) if not precisely identified. It could also be mistaken for other industrial solvents (Chapter 38) if its chemical identity is not prioritized.

Products Classified Under 2914.12

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China, the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands are key countries in the global trade of butanone (MEK).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291412?

HS code 291412 covers: Ketones; acyclic, without other oxygen function, butanone (methyl ethyl ketone). Butanone, commonly known as Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), is another significant acyclic ketone, widely traded as a powerful and fast-evaporating solvent. Its excellent solvency properties make it indispensable in various industrial applications, particularly in coatings, adhesives, printing inks, and as a dewaxing agent in petroleum refining. Major importers include manufacturers of paints, varnishes, glues, and printing inks, as well as companies in the automotive and construction sectors. Exporters are typically large petrochemical producers, often co-producing MEK with other chemicals. Key trade considerations include purity specifications, packaging for bulk or smaller quantities, and strict adherence to hazardous materials transportation and storage regulations due to its flammability and volatility. Global demand for MEK is influenced by industrial manufacturing activity, particularly in the automotive, construction, and packaging industries.

What products fall under HS code 291412?

MEK solvent, Paint and varnish remover, Adhesive solvent, Printing ink solvent, Dewaxing agent, Chemical intermediate, Cleaning fluid, PVC cement solvent

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291412?

This code is specific to butanone (MEK); it might be confused with acetone (291411) or other acyclic ketones (291419) if not precisely identified. It could also be mistaken for other industrial solvents (Chapter 38) if its chemical identity is not prioritized.

How is HS code 291412 structured?

HS code 291412 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (14) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.