HS Code 29.15 – Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives

HS code 2915 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives. Heading 2915 specifically covers saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids, as well as their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. This classification is fundamental for understanding the trade of a core group of organic acids, which are characterized by a single carboxyl group (-COOH), a straight or branched chain (acyclic), and no carbon-carbon double or triple bonds (saturated). These acids and their derivatives are indispensable in a multitude of industries, including food and beverage, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and general chemical manufacturing. The scope of 2915 is precise, focusing on acids like formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, and stearic acid. Crucially, it extends beyond the acids themselves to include key derivatives: anhydrides (e.g., acetic anhydride), halides (e.g., acetyl chloride), peroxides (e.g., diacetyl peroxide), and peroxyacids (e.g., peracetic acid). The heading further encompasses chemically modified versions of these acids and their derivatives, specifically those that are halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated, allowing for the classification of compounds like chloroacetic acid or trichloroacetic acid. This comprehensive coverage ensures that closely related chemical entities are grouped together. Accurate classification under 2915 is paramount for trade compliance, directly impacting tariff rates, regulatory approvals (especially for food additives or pharmaceutical intermediates), and adherence to hazardous materials regulations (due to the corrosive nature of many acids and their derivatives). Misclassification can lead to significant customs issues, delays, and penalties. Historically, these acids have been central to industrial chemistry, with acetic acid being one of the oldest and most widely produced organic chemicals. As a vital component of Chapter 29, 'Organic Chemicals,' this heading provides clarity and consistency for the global trade of these essential and versatile organic compounds.

Formic acid, Acetic acid, Propionic acid, Butyric acid, Valeric acid, Caproic acid, Stearic acid, Palmitic acid, Acetic anhydride, Acetyl chloride, Peracetic acid, Chloroacetic acid, Trichloroacetic acid, Propionyl chloride, Sodium acetate (salt of acetic acid), Calcium propionate (salt of propionic acid), Stearoyl chloride, Formic anhydride, Peroxyformic acid, Bromopropionic acid, Nitrated acetic acid, Sulphoacetic acid, Butyric anhydride, Octanoic acid, Decanoic acid, Myristic acid.

A common misclassification error for HS 2915 involves confusing 'saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids' with other types of carboxylic acids. Traders frequently misclassify unsaturated acyclic acids (e.g., acrylic acid, HS 2916), dicarboxylic or polycarboxylic acids (e.g., oxalic acid, HS 2917), or cyclic carboxylic acids (e.g., benzoic acid, HS 2918) under this heading. The 'saturated,' 'acyclic,' and 'monocarboxylic' criteria are crucial for correct placement. Additionally, while salts of these acids (e.g., sodium acetate) generally fall under 2915 with their parent acid, esters of these acids are typically classified under HS 2918, which is a frequent point of confusion. The heading explicitly lists anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids, but not all other possible derivatives.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2915 in UN Comtrade data were China ($3.1B, 22% of world exports), the United States ($1.8B) and Indonesia ($1.3B). World exports came to about $14.3B, 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 2915 in UN Comtrade data were India ($1.4B, 9.3% of world imports), the United States ($1.0B) and Germany ($995M). World imports came to about $15.3B, 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 2915 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (15) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.