HS Code for Ethylene

Ethylene is classified under HS code 2901.21 as an unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbon. Heading 2901 covers acyclic hydrocarbons, and sub-heading 2901.21 is specifically reserved for ethylene. As a gaseous alkene with the molecular formula C2H4, it is the simplest unsaturated hydrocarbon containing a carbon-carbon double bond. The classification depends on its purity and state; for inclusion in Chapter 29, it must be a separate chemically defined compound. Ethylene is a fundamental building block in the petrochemical industry, produced primarily through the steam cracking of ethane, propane, or naphtha. It is the precursor to a vast array of chemicals, including polyethylene, ethylene oxide, and various halogenated derivatives. Its classification is straightforward due to its specific mention in the nomenclature, provided it meets the purity requirements for organic chemicals (typically 95% or higher by volume for gaseous products in this chapter).

Products Included

• Polymer-grade ethylene (high purity)
• Chemical-grade ethylene
• Ethylene gas used for fruit ripening
• Ethylene used as a feedstock for ethylene dichloride
• Ethylene used in the production of ethyl alcohol via hydration

Common Misclassification

Ethylene is often confused with polyethylene, which is a polymer classified under HS code 3901.10 or 3901.20 depending on its density. While ethylene is the monomer, the plastic resin is classified in Chapter 39. Additionally, ethylene may be confused with propylene (HS code 2901.22), which is the next member of the alkene series. In some cases, refinery-grade ethylene streams that do not meet the purity standards of Chapter 29 may be classified under Chapter 27 (HS code 2711.14) as liquefied petroleum gases or other gaseous hydrocarbons.

FAQ

What is the HS code for ethylene?

The HS code for ethylene is 2901.21, categorized under unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons.

Does the state of the ethylene (liquid vs gas) change the HS code?

No, whether ethylene is transported as a compressed gas or a cryogenic liquid, it remains classified under 2901.21, provided it is a chemically defined compound.