HS Code for Benzilic acid

Benzilic acid, chemically known as 2,2-Diphenyl-2-hydroxyacetic acid, is classified under HS code 2918.17. Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System covers organic chemicals. Within this chapter, heading 2918 is reserved for carboxylic acids with additional oxygen functions (such as alcohol, phenol, aldehyde, or ketone functions) and their derivatives. Benzilic acid contains both a carboxylic acid group and a hydroxyl (alcohol) group on the same carbon skeleton, which necessitates its placement in 2918. Subheading 2918.17 is a specific provision for this chemical due to its significance in various chemical syntheses and its status as a monitored precursor under international conventions. The classification is determined by the molecular structure of the compound, following the rules for pure organic chemicals. Benzilic acid is an aromatic hydroxy-acid, and because it is specifically named in the 2918.17 subheading, it must be classified there rather than in a more general category like 2918.19. This level of specificity is crucial for regulatory compliance, as benzilic acid is a precursor in the manufacture of certain pharmaceuticals and is also monitored under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) as a Schedule 2 substance. Accurate classification ensures that the necessary permits and declarations are filed with customs and chemical weapons authorities.

Products Included

• Pure benzilic acid (2,2-Diphenyl-2-hydroxyacetic acid)
• Salts of benzilic acid
• Esters of benzilic acid
• Technical grade benzilic acid
• Benzilic acid powder for laboratory use

Common Misclassification

Benzilic acid is sometimes misclassified under 2916, which covers unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, or 2917, which covers polycarboxylic acids. However, because benzilic acid contains a hydroxyl group (alcohol function), it must be placed in 2918. Another error is using the general code 2918.19 for other hydroxy-acids. Since 2918.17 is the specific code for benzilic acid, using the general code is a violation of the principle of specificity in the HS system.

FAQ

What is the HS code for benzilic acid?

The specific international HS code for benzilic acid is 2918.17.

Is benzilic acid a controlled substance?

Yes, it is often monitored as a precursor for chemical agents and may require special import/export licenses depending on the jurisdiction.