HS Code 30.04 – Medicaments; (not goods of heading no. 3002, 3005 or 3006) consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic use, put up in measured doses (incl. those in the form of transdermal admin. systems) or packed for retail sale

HS code 3004 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Medicaments; (not goods of heading no. 3002, 3005 or 3006) consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic use, put up in measured doses (incl. those in the form of transdermal admin. systems) or packed for retail sale. Heading 3004 encompasses a broad and critical category of goods in international trade: medicaments. This classification specifically covers pharmaceutical preparations for therapeutic or prophylactic use, provided they are put up in measured doses (like tablets, capsules, ampoules, or transdermal systems) or packed for retail sale. The scope is defined by exclusion, meaning it does not include goods of heading 3002 (antisera, vaccines, toxins, cultures), 3005 (wadding, gauze, bandages), or 3006 (other pharmaceutical goods). This distinction is vital for accurate classification. Key sub-categories include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies meeting pharmaceutical standards, and medicated chewing gum, all prepared for direct consumption or application. The significance of 3004 for trade compliance is immense, as these products are subject to stringent regulatory controls, health authority approvals, and often specific tariff rates, import licenses, and customs procedures in virtually every country. Misclassification can lead to significant delays, penalties, and even product seizure. Historically, the trade in medicaments has grown exponentially, driven by global health needs, technological advancements in drug development, and expanding pharmaceutical markets, making this heading one of the most economically significant within Section VI (Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries) and specifically Chapter 30 (Pharmaceutical Products). Its precise definition ensures appropriate oversight of global drug supply chains.

Paracetamol tablets, Ibuprofen capsules, Insulin injections, Amoxicillin oral suspension, Transdermal nicotine patches, Fentanyl patches, Vitamin C effervescent tablets, Multivitamin supplements in measured doses, Antacid chewable tablets, Cough syrup in retail bottles, Eye drops in sterile dispensers, Nasal sprays for therapeutic use, Medicated skin creams in retail tubes, Hormonal birth control pills, Antihypertensive tablets, Antidepressant capsules, Oral rehydration salts in sachets, Allergy relief tablets, Anti-fungal creams, Diabetes medication pens, Contraceptive implants, Asthma inhalers, Erectile dysfunction pills, Hair loss treatment tablets, Sleep aid capsules

Common misclassifications for products under HS 3004 often occur with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) of Chapter 29, which are unmixed chemical compounds not yet put up in measured doses or retail packing, versus the finished medicament in 3004. Another frequent error is confusing 3004 with 3002 (e.g., vaccines or antisera) or 3005 (medicated dressings). For example, a medicated bandage (3005) is distinct from a pain relief tablet (3004), even if both contain pharmaceutical substances. Diagnostic reagents (often 3822 or even 3006 for retail-packed kits) are also sometimes incorrectly placed in 3004, despite their non-therapeutic nature. The key differentiator for 3004 is the therapeutic/prophylactic use and the specific presentation (measured dose or retail pack).

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 3004 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($73.4B, 14% of world exports), Italy ($55.0B) and Switzerland ($49.7B). World exports came to about $521.2B, 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 3004 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($94.1B, 17% of world imports), Switzerland ($55.7B) and Germany ($42.7B). World imports came to about $560.1B, 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 3004 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 30 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (30) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (04) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.