HS Code Subheading

Acids; aromatic polycarboxylic acids; dimethyl terephthalate

2917.37 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291737

Dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) is an ester primarily used in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin and polyester fibers. While purified terephthalic acid (PTA) has largely replaced DMT in new PET plants due to process efficiencies, DMT still holds importance in older facilities and for specific specialty polyester applications. Countries with established textile industries and older PET production facilities are key importers, often in regions like Southeast Asia and parts of Europe. Exporters are typically chemical manufacturers with integrated petrochemical complexes. Trade considerations include its solid flake form, purity specifications, and competition with PTA. Its demand is linked to the global textile and packaging sectors, though its market share has diminished over time, making it a more niche product in modern trade.

Products Under This Code

Dimethyl terephthalate flakes, DMT for PET, DMT for polyester fibers, DMT for specialty polyesters, DMT for films, DMT for engineering plastics

Real World Examples

Eastman DMT, Mitsubishi Chemical DMT, Sinopec DMT, Reliance Industries DMT, Indorama Ventures DMT

Common Misclassification

Often confused with 291736 (terephthalic acid and its salts) as it's a derivative, or with 291734 (other esters of orthophthalic acids) if the specific "dimethyl terephthalate" identity is not clearly stated.

Products Classified Under 2917.37

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

India, Pakistan, and Vietnam are notable importers, while China, South Korea, and Taiwan are key exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291737?

HS code 291737 covers: Acids; aromatic polycarboxylic acids; dimethyl terephthalate. Dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) is an ester primarily used in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin and polyester fibers. While purified terephthalic acid (PTA) has largely replaced DMT in new PET plants due to process efficiencies, DMT still holds importance in older facilities and for specific specialty polyester applications. Countries with established textile industries and older PET production facilities are key importers, often in regions like Southeast Asia and parts of Europe. Exporters are typically chemical manufacturers with integrated petrochemical complexes. Trade considerations include its solid flake form, purity specifications, and competition with PTA. Its demand is linked to the global textile and packaging sectors, though its market share has diminished over time, making it a more niche product in modern trade.

What products fall under HS code 291737?

Dimethyl terephthalate flakes, DMT for PET, DMT for polyester fibers, DMT for specialty polyesters, DMT for films, DMT for engineering plastics

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291737?

Often confused with 291736 (terephthalic acid and its salts) as it's a derivative, or with 291734 (other esters of orthophthalic acids) if the specific "dimethyl terephthalate" identity is not clearly stated.

How is HS code 291737 structured?

HS code 291737 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (17) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (37) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.