HS Code 29.17 – Acids; polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxy-acids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives

HS code 2917 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Acids; polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides and peroxy-acids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives. Heading 2917 covers polycarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids, along with their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. This classification is crucial for compounds possessing two or more carboxyl (-COOH) groups, such as adipic acid (dicarboxylic) or citric acid (tricarboxylic). These chemicals are foundational intermediates in the production of a vast array of industrial and consumer goods. The scope includes aliphatic, alicyclic, and aromatic polycarboxylic acids, emphasizing their role in polymer synthesis (e.g., nylons, polyesters), plasticizers, food and beverage additives, and pharmaceuticals. Distinguishing these from monocarboxylic acids (2916) or carboxylic acids with additional oxygen functions (2918) is a key aspect of accurate classification. This heading's significance in international trade underscores its impact on global manufacturing supply chains. Its placement within Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) reinforces the meticulous classification required for these complex chemical entities, vital for both regulatory compliance and economic analysis.

Adipic acid, phthalic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, sebacic acid, azelaic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, trimellitic acid, maleic anhydride, phthalic anhydride, succinic anhydride, sodium citrate, potassium tartrate, diethyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, citric acid monohydrate, trimesic acid, malonic acid, itaconic acid

Misclassification under HS 2917 often occurs when traders fail to correctly identify the number of carboxyl groups. A common error is confusing polycarboxylic acids with HS 2916 (Unsaturated acyclic or cyclic monocarboxylic acids), especially when the compound also features unsaturation or a cyclic structure. For example, a dicarboxylic acid might be mistakenly classified as monocarboxylic. Another frequent mistake involves HS 2918 (Carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function), particularly for polycarboxylic acids like citric acid that also possess a hydroxyl group. The rule here is that if a product clearly fits the description of a polycarboxylic acid, it is classified under 2917, even if it has other oxygen functions.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 2917 in UN Comtrade data were China ($4.8B, 35% of world exports), South Korea ($1.8B) and Taiwan (about $833M). World exports came to about $13.7B, 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 2917 in UN Comtrade data were India ($2.0B, 13% of world imports), Türkiye ($1.4B) and the United States ($961M). World imports came to about $14.7B, 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.

HS code 2917 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (17) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.