HS Code for Cinchona alkaloids

Cinchona alkaloids are classified under HS code 2939.20 because they represent a specific group of vegetable alkaloids, their derivatives, and their salts, as defined in the nomenclature of Chapter 29. Chapter 29 is dedicated to organic chemicals, and heading 2939 specifically covers vegetable alkaloids, whether or not they are reproduced by synthesis. The Cinchona genus of plants is the primary source of these alkaloids, which include quinine, quinidine, cinchonine, and cinchonidine. These compounds are extracted from the bark of the Cinchona tree and are valued for their medicinal properties, particularly in the treatment of malaria and cardiac arrhythmias. The classification 2939.20 is applied when these substances are imported or exported as pure chemical compounds or in bulk form. It is important to note that the HS system distinguishes between the raw botanical material (which would fall under Chapter 12) and the isolated chemical alkaloid. Furthermore, the product must not be prepared as a medicament in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale, as that would shift the classification to Chapter 30. The salts of these alkaloids, such as quinine hydrochloride or quinine sulfate, are also included under this specific subheading, provided they maintain their character as separate chemically defined compounds.

Products Included

• Quinine and its salts (e.g., quinine sulfate, quinine bisulfate)
• Quinidine and its salts
• Cinchonine and its salts
• Cinchonidine and its salts
• Ethylhydrocupreine (optochin)
• Derivatives of cinchona alkaloids used in chemical synthesis

Common Misclassification

Cinchona alkaloids are frequently misclassified under HS code 3003 or 3004. These codes are reserved for medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, put up in measured doses or in forms for retail sale. If the quinine is in the form of a finished tablet or an injectable solution ready for patient use, it must be moved to Chapter 30. Another common error is using HS code 1211.90 for the raw cinchona bark. While the alkaloids are derived from the bark, the bark itself is a botanical product and belongs in Chapter 12.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Quinine?

The HS code for Quinine and its salts is 2939.20.

Does this code include synthetic versions?

Yes, HS code 2939.20 includes cinchona alkaloids whether they are naturally extracted or reproduced by synthesis.