About HS Code 291431
Phenylacetone, also known as phenylpropan-2-one (P2P), is an aromatic ketone with significant industrial applications, primarily as a chemical intermediate. However, its trade is heavily scrutinized and regulated due to its notorious use as a precursor in the illicit manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). Legitimate trade involves specialized chemical companies supplying to pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries for the synthesis of specific compounds, often under strict licensing and monitoring. Importers are typically highly regulated pharmaceutical manufacturers or research institutions. Key aspects for traders include navigating stringent international drug precursor controls (e.g., UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, EU regulations, US DEA regulations). The market is characterized by low legitimate volumes, high security, and extensive documentation requirements to prevent diversion.
Products Under This Code
Phenylacetone, Phenylpropan-2-one, Benzyl methyl ketone, P2P
Real World Examples
Merck Phenylacetone (for lab use), Sigma-Aldrich Phenylacetone (for lab use), specialized fine chemical suppliers
Common Misclassification
This code is highly specific. Misclassification could occur if it's incorrectly grouped with other aromatic ketones under 291439, or if it's disguised as a different chemical to evade precursor controls, leading to severe legal consequences.
Products Classified Under 2914.31
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
Trade is highly restricted and monitored globally, with legitimate movements primarily between regulated chemical and pharmaceutical industries in developed nations like Germany, the USA, and China.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 291431?
HS code 291431 covers: Ketones; aromatic, (without other oxygen function), phenylacetone (phenylpropan-2-one). Phenylacetone, also known as phenylpropan-2-one (P2P), is an aromatic ketone with significant industrial applications, primarily as a chemical intermediate. However, its trade is heavily scrutinized and regulated due to its notorious use as a precursor in the illicit manufacture of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS). Legitimate trade involves specialized chemical companies supplying to pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries for the synthesis of specific compounds, often under strict licensing and monitoring. Importers are typically highly regulated pharmaceutical manufacturers or research institutions. Key aspects for traders include navigating stringent international drug precursor controls (e.g., UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, EU regulations, US DEA regulations). The market is characterized by low legitimate volumes, high security, and extensive documentation requirements to prevent diversion.
What products fall under HS code 291431?
Phenylacetone, Phenylpropan-2-one, Benzyl methyl ketone, P2P
What are common misclassifications for HS code 291431?
This code is highly specific. Misclassification could occur if it's incorrectly grouped with other aromatic ketones under 291439, or if it's disguised as a different chemical to evade precursor controls, leading to severe legal consequences.
How is HS code 291431 structured?
HS code 291431 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 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.