HS Code Subheading

Heterocyclic compounds; containing an unfused triazine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, melamine

2933.61 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 293361

This specific HS code is dedicated solely to melamine, a crucial heterocyclic compound featuring an unfused triazine ring. Melamine is a white crystalline organic compound primarily used in the production of melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are thermosetting plastics known for their durability, heat resistance, and scratch resistance. These resins find extensive applications in laminates, adhesives, coatings, and molding compounds for dinnerware and kitchenware. The international trade of melamine is significant, driven by the global demand for construction materials, furniture, and consumer goods. Major exporters are typically countries with large petrochemical industries and access to raw materials like urea, such as China, Germany, and the Netherlands. Importers include manufacturers of laminates, plastics, and coatings worldwide, with strong demand from developing economies undergoing infrastructure and manufacturing expansion. Key considerations in trade include purity standards, packaging for bulk transport, and adherence to chemical safety regulations. While generally not a controlled substance, its past association with food adulteration incidents has led to increased scrutiny in certain applications, making quality control and origin transparency important.

Products Under This Code

Melamine powder, Melamine crystals, Melamine granules, Melamine resin precursor, Melamine for laminates

Real World Examples

Formica (laminates), Arpa Industriale (laminates), IKEA (melamine-faced boards), Tupperware (melamine dinnerware)

Common Misclassification

This code is very specific to melamine. It might be confused with 293369, which covers other triazine compounds, but the explicit mention of "melamine" here makes it distinct.

Products Classified Under 2933.61

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

China is a dominant exporter, with Germany and the Netherlands also significant, while importers are global manufacturers of resins, laminates, and plastics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 293361?

HS code 293361 covers: Heterocyclic compounds; containing an unfused triazine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, melamine. This specific HS code is dedicated solely to melamine, a crucial heterocyclic compound featuring an unfused triazine ring. Melamine is a white crystalline organic compound primarily used in the production of melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are thermosetting plastics known for their durability, heat resistance, and scratch resistance. These resins find extensive applications in laminates, adhesives, coatings, and molding compounds for dinnerware and kitchenware. The international trade of melamine is significant, driven by the global demand for construction materials, furniture, and consumer goods. Major exporters are typically countries with large petrochemical industries and access to raw materials like urea, such as China, Germany, and the Netherlands. Importers include manufacturers of laminates, plastics, and coatings worldwide, with strong demand from developing economies undergoing infrastructure and manufacturing expansion. Key considerations in trade include purity standards, packaging for bulk transport, and adherence to chemical safety regulations. While generally not a controlled substance, its past association with food adulteration incidents has led to increased scrutiny in certain applications, making quality control and origin transparency important.

What products fall under HS code 293361?

Melamine powder, Melamine crystals, Melamine granules, Melamine resin precursor, Melamine for laminates

What are common misclassifications for HS code 293361?

This code is very specific to melamine. It might be confused with 293369, which covers other triazine compounds, but the explicit mention of "melamine" here makes it distinct.

How is HS code 293361 structured?

HS code 293361 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 (61) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.