HS Code Subheading

Heterocyclic compounds; containing a pyrimidine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) or piperazine ring in the structure; loprazolam (INN), mecloqualone (INN), methaqualone (INN), and zipeprol (INN); salts thereof

2933.55 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 293355

These specific heterocyclic compounds, featuring pyrimidine or piperazine rings, represent a niche but significant segment within the pharmaceutical and chemical trade. The compounds listed – loprazolam, mecloqualone, methaqualone, and zipeprol – are primarily controlled substances, often used as sedatives or hypnotics, and are subject to strict international regulations due to their potential for abuse. International trade in these substances is highly regulated, requiring special licenses and permits from both exporting and importing countries, often under the purview of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). Key players in this trade include specialized pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, often in countries with advanced chemical synthesis capabilities like Switzerland, Germany, India, and China. Importers are typically pharmaceutical companies for legitimate medical research or very limited therapeutic use, or, unfortunately, illicit networks. Understanding the stringent legal frameworks, including CITES and national drug control acts, is paramount for anyone involved in their cross-border movement, as missteps can lead to severe penalties. The trade volume for these specific, often restricted, compounds is generally lower than for more common pharmaceuticals, but their high value and regulatory complexity make them a critical area for customs and trade compliance.

Products Under This Code

Loprazolam, Mecloqualone, Methaqualone, Zipeprol, Loprazolam salts, Mecloqualone hydrochloride, Methaqualone base

Real World Examples

Dormonoct (Loprazolam), Quaalude (Methaqualone - historical), Mequelon (Methaqualone - historical), Zipeprol cough syrup (historical)

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct due to its specific listing of controlled substances. It might be confused with 293359, which covers other pyrimidine/piperazine compounds not specifically enumerated, but the explicit naming here is key.

Products Classified Under 2933.55

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Due to strict controls, trade is limited, but historical or current legitimate manufacturing and research often involve countries like Switzerland, Germany, India, and China, with importing nations varying based on specific medical or research needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 293355?

HS code 293355 covers: Heterocyclic compounds; containing a pyrimidine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) or piperazine ring in the structure; loprazolam (INN), mecloqualone (INN), methaqualone (INN), and zipeprol (INN); salts thereof. These specific heterocyclic compounds, featuring pyrimidine or piperazine rings, represent a niche but significant segment within the pharmaceutical and chemical trade. The compounds listed – loprazolam, mecloqualone, methaqualone, and zipeprol – are primarily controlled substances, often used as sedatives or hypnotics, and are subject to strict international regulations due to their potential for abuse. International trade in these substances is highly regulated, requiring special licenses and permits from both exporting and importing countries, often under the purview of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). Key players in this trade include specialized pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, often in countries with advanced chemical synthesis capabilities like Switzerland, Germany, India, and China. Importers are typically pharmaceutical companies for legitimate medical research or very limited therapeutic use, or, unfortunately, illicit networks. Understanding the stringent legal frameworks, including CITES and national drug control acts, is paramount for anyone involved in their cross-border movement, as missteps can lead to severe penalties. The trade volume for these specific, often restricted, compounds is generally lower than for more common pharmaceuticals, but their high value and regulatory complexity make them a critical area for customs and trade compliance.

What products fall under HS code 293355?

Loprazolam, Mecloqualone, Methaqualone, Zipeprol, Loprazolam salts, Mecloqualone hydrochloride, Methaqualone base

What are common misclassifications for HS code 293355?

This code is distinct due to its specific listing of controlled substances. It might be confused with 293359, which covers other pyrimidine/piperazine compounds not specifically enumerated, but the explicit naming here is key.

How is HS code 293355 structured?

HS code 293355 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (33) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (55) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.