HS Code for Antibiotics

Antibiotics, in their unmixed form or not elsewhere specified, are classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 294190, which covers "Antibiotics; n.e.c. in heading no. 2941." This classification falls under Chapter 29 of the HS nomenclature, which is dedicated to organic chemicals. Heading 2941 specifically encompasses antibiotics. The subheading 294190 serves as a residual category for antibiotics that do not have a more specific six-digit code within 2941 (e.g., penicillins, streptomycins, tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, which have their own distinct subheadings). This code is typically used for bulk, unmixed antibiotic substances, often referred to as Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), intended for further manufacturing into pharmaceutical preparations.

Products Included

• Bulk vancomycin powder for pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Unmixed polymyxin B sulfate for compounding
• Raw bacitracin for use as an API
• Fusidic acid in its unformulated chemical state
• Daptomycin as a bulk active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Other novel or less common antibiotics not specifically listed under other 2941 subheadings

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification for antibiotics under HS 294190 is with HS 3004, which covers "Medicaments containing antibiotics." The critical distinction is that 294190 is for the unmixed, bulk antibiotic substance (API), whereas 3004 is for prepared medicines, formulated into dosage forms (e.g., tablets, capsules, injections) and often packaged for retail sale. For example, bulk erythromycin would be 294190, but erythromycin tablets for retail would be 3004. Another potential confusion could be with other specific antibiotic types that have their own subheadings within 2941, such as 294110 for penicillins or 294130 for tetracyclines. Misclassification could also occur if an antibiotic is part of a mixture not yet a medicament, potentially leading to consideration under HS 3003, but 2941 is for the unmixed substance.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Antibiotics?

The HS code for antibiotics, specifically those not elsewhere specified within heading 2941 and typically in their unmixed, bulk form, is 294190. This code is part of Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals, including various types of antibiotics.

What is the distinction between HS 2941 and HS 3004 for antibiotics?

HS 2941 covers antibiotics in their unmixed, bulk form, serving as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for further manufacturing. In contrast, HS 3004 covers prepared medicaments containing antibiotics, which are formulated into specific dosage forms (e.g., tablets, injections) and often packaged for retail sale or direct therapeutic use.