HS Code Subheading

Prepared culture media for the development or maintenance of micro-organisms (including viruses and the like) or of plant, human or animal cells

3821.00 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 382100

This highly specialized category includes prepared culture media, which are nutrient-rich formulations essential for the development or maintenance of micro-organisms (including viruses) or of plant, human, or animal cells. These media are critical tools in scientific research, clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical production, and biotechnology. Importers and exporters are primarily research institutions, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms. The trade involves sensitive, often sterile products, with strict quality control, specific formulations for different cell types, and regulatory compliance being paramount to ensure reliable experimental results and safe biological production.

Products Under This Code

Agar plates, cell culture media, microbial broth, viral transport media, plant tissue culture media, bacterial growth media, yeast extract peptone dextrose (YPD) media

Real World Examples

Thermo Fisher Scientific culture media, Merck Millipore cell culture media, BD BBL media, Corning cell culture products, Lonza BioWhittaker media

Common Misclassification

Could be confused with other laboratory reagents (3822) or even certain food preparations (Chapter 21) if their specific biological culture purpose and 'prepared' nature aren't clearly stated. The intent for 'development or maintenance of cells/micro-organisms' is crucial.

Products Classified Under 3821.00

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

USA, Germany, and Japan are leading in both import and export due to their advanced biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 382100?

HS code 382100 covers: Prepared culture media for the development or maintenance of micro-organisms (including viruses and the like) or of plant, human or animal cells. This highly specialized category includes prepared culture media, which are nutrient-rich formulations essential for the development or maintenance of micro-organisms (including viruses) or of plant, human, or animal cells. These media are critical tools in scientific research, clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical production, and biotechnology. Importers and exporters are primarily research institutions, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms. The trade involves sensitive, often sterile products, with strict quality control, specific formulations for different cell types, and regulatory compliance being paramount to ensure reliable experimental results and safe biological production.

What products fall under HS code 382100?

Agar plates, cell culture media, microbial broth, viral transport media, plant tissue culture media, bacterial growth media, yeast extract peptone dextrose (YPD) media

What are common misclassifications for HS code 382100?

Could be confused with other laboratory reagents (3822) or even certain food preparations (Chapter 21) if their specific biological culture purpose and 'prepared' nature aren't clearly stated. The intent for 'development or maintenance of cells/micro-organisms' is crucial.

How is HS code 382100 structured?

HS code 382100 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (38) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (21) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (00) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.