About HS Code 391239
This HS code covers a diverse range of cellulose ethers, excluding carboxymethylcellulose, traded in their primary forms. These polymers are critical for industries requiring thickening, binding, film-forming, and water retention properties. Key examples include methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Countries with robust construction, pharmaceutical, food, and personal care industries, such as the USA, Germany, and Japan, are major importers. Exporters are typically large chemical producers in regions like Europe, North America, and China. The trade involves various grades tailored for specific applications, from cement additives and dry mix mortars to pharmaceutical excipients and food thickeners. Understanding the specific etherification and molecular weight is paramount for traders to ensure the correct product for the intended application. The market is driven by the demand for high-performance, bio-derived additives.
Products Under This Code
Methylcellulose, Ethylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), Hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEMC)
Real World Examples
Dow Methocel, Ashland Benecel, Shin-Etsu Metolose, DuPont Ethocel, AkzoNobel Bermocoll
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from 391231 (carboxymethylcellulose) and can be confused with 391290 (other cellulose derivatives) if the product is not clearly identified as a cellulose ether.
Products Classified Under 3912.39
Industry
This code belongs to the Plastics & Rubber industry.
Trade Overview
Major importers include the USA, Germany, and Japan, while key exporters are often found in Europe, North America, and China.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 391239?
HS code 391239 covers: Cellulose ethers; (other than carboxymethylcellulose and its salts), in primary forms. This HS code covers a diverse range of cellulose ethers, excluding carboxymethylcellulose, traded in their primary forms. These polymers are critical for industries requiring thickening, binding, film-forming, and water retention properties. Key examples include methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Countries with robust construction, pharmaceutical, food, and personal care industries, such as the USA, Germany, and Japan, are major importers. Exporters are typically large chemical producers in regions like Europe, North America, and China. The trade involves various grades tailored for specific applications, from cement additives and dry mix mortars to pharmaceutical excipients and food thickeners. Understanding the specific etherification and molecular weight is paramount for traders to ensure the correct product for the intended application. The market is driven by the demand for high-performance, bio-derived additives.
What products fall under HS code 391239?
Methylcellulose, Ethylcellulose, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), Hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEMC)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 391239?
This code is distinct from 391231 (carboxymethylcellulose) and can be confused with 391290 (other cellulose derivatives) if the product is not clearly identified as a cellulose ether.
How is HS code 391239 structured?
HS code 391239 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (39) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (39) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.