HS Code for Acrylic varnish

Acrylic varnish is classified under HS code 3208.20. This classification is determined by the chemical composition of the binder and the nature of the solvent. Chapter 32 covers tanning or dyeing extracts, tannins, pigments, and paints and varnishes. Heading 3208 specifically applies to paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium. The subheading 3208.20 is reserved for those based on acrylic or vinyl polymers. For a product to fall under this code, the weight of the solvent must exceed 50% of the weight of the solution, or it must be clearly identified as a solvent-based system. If the acrylic polymer is dissolved in an organic solvent rather than water, 3208.20 is the correct designation. This follows General Interpretative Rule 1 and the specific Chapter 32 notes regarding the distinction between aqueous and non-aqueous media.

Products Included

• Solvent-based acrylic varnishes
• Acrylic lacquers for automotive or industrial use
• Non-aqueous acrylic clear coats
• Acrylic enamels dissolved in organic solvents
• Acrylic-based wood stains in non-aqueous media

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is confusing 3208.20 with 3209.10. HS code 3209.10 is used for acrylic paints and varnishes dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous (water-based) medium. Importers must verify the solvent type to distinguish between these two. Another error is using 3210.00, which is a residual category for other paints and varnishes that do not fit the specific polymer descriptions in 3208 or 3209.

FAQ

What is the HS code for acrylic varnish?

The HS code for solvent-based acrylic varnish is 3208.20. If it is water-based, the code is 3209.10.

What defines a 'non-aqueous' medium in HS code 3208?

A non-aqueous medium refers to a solution where the volatile organic solvent (like mineral spirits or toluene) is the primary carrier, rather than water.