HS Code for Contraceptive pills

Contraceptive pills are classified under HS code 300660. This classification is governed by the specific provisions of Chapter 30, which covers pharmaceutical products. While most medicaments intended for therapeutic or prophylactic use are classified under heading 3004, the Harmonized System provides heading 3006 for "special pharmaceutical goods." According to Note 4 to Chapter 30, heading 3006 applies only to specific items, including chemical contraceptive preparations based on hormones, on other products of heading 2937, or on spermicides. Because contraceptive pills are chemical preparations designed to prevent conception rather than treat a disease, they are excluded from 3004 and must be placed in 300660. This classification applies regardless of whether the pills are packaged for retail sale or in bulk, provided they are in the form of chemical preparations ready for use as contraceptives.

Products Included

• Combined oral contraceptive pills (estrogen and progestogen)
• Progestogen-only pills (mini-pills)
• Emergency contraceptive pills (morning-after pills)
• Hormonal birth control tablets
• Chemical contraceptive preparations in tablet or pill form

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 300439, which covers other medicaments containing hormones but not put up in measured doses for contraceptive use. Importers often mistake contraceptives for general hormonal treatments. Additionally, bulk hormones used to manufacture these pills are classified in heading 2937, but once they are formulated into a contraceptive preparation, they must move to 300660.

FAQ

What is the HS code for contraceptive pills?

The specific HS code for chemical contraceptive preparations based on hormones or spermicides is 300660.

Are intrauterine devices (IUDs) classified here?

No, mechanical or physical contraceptives like IUDs are generally classified under HS code 901890 as medical instruments, as they are not chemical preparations.