HS Code Subheading

Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; acetic acid

2915.21 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291521

This HS code covers acetic acid, a fundamental organic chemical with vast industrial and commercial applications. It's the primary component of vinegar (diluted acetic acid) and is extensively used in the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is a precursor for polymers used in paints and adhesives. Acetic acid is also crucial for manufacturing purified terephthalic acid (PTA), a raw material for PET plastics and polyester fibers. Other uses include pharmaceuticals, food additives, and as a solvent. Major importers are countries with large petrochemical, textile, and food processing industries, such as China, the USA, India, and various EU nations. Exporters typically include countries with significant petrochemical production capacities, like China, the USA, and Saudi Arabia. Key considerations for trade involve its corrosive nature, requiring specialized transport and storage, and its various grades (e.g., glacial, food grade, technical grade), which affect its price and application. Its global demand is a strong indicator of industrial activity.

Products Under This Code

Glacial acetic acid, Technical grade acetic acid, Food grade acetic acid, Acetic acid solution, Vinegar concentrate, Pharmaceutical grade acetic acid

Real World Examples

Celanese Acetic Acid, Eastman Acetic Acid, BP Acetic Acid, LyondellBasell Acetic Acid

Common Misclassification

This code is specific to acetic acid. Its anhydride (291524) and other salts/esters (291529) are classified separately, which can lead to misclassification if the exact chemical form is not identified.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.

Products Classified Under 2915.21

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include China, the USA, and India; top exporters are China, the USA, and Saudi Arabia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291521?

HS code 291521 covers: Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; acetic acid. This HS code covers acetic acid, a fundamental organic chemical with vast industrial and commercial applications. It's the primary component of vinegar (diluted acetic acid) and is extensively used in the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is a precursor for polymers used in paints and adhesives. Acetic acid is also crucial for manufacturing purified terephthalic acid (PTA), a raw material for PET plastics and polyester fibers. Other uses include pharmaceuticals, food additives, and as a solvent. Major importers are countries with large petrochemical, textile, and food processing industries, such as China, the USA, India, and various EU nations. Exporters typically include countries with significant petrochemical production capacities, like China, the USA, and Saudi Arabia. Key considerations for trade involve its corrosive nature, requiring specialized transport and storage, and its various grades (e.g., glacial, food grade, technical grade), which affect its price and application. Its global demand is a strong indicator of industrial activity.

What products fall under HS code 291521?

Glacial acetic acid, Technical grade acetic acid, Food grade acetic acid, Acetic acid solution, Vinegar concentrate, Pharmaceutical grade acetic acid

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291521?

This code is specific to acetic acid. Its anhydride (291524) and other salts/esters (291529) are classified separately, which can lead to misclassification if the exact chemical form is not identified.

How is HS code 291521 structured?

HS code 291521 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (15) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.