HS Code for Hydrocyanic acid

Hydrocyanic acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide, is classified under HS code 281112. This classification is situated within Chapter 28 (Inorganic chemicals) and specifically under heading 2811, which covers other inorganic acids and other inorganic oxygen compounds of non-metals. The subheading 281112 was specifically created to identify hydrogen cyanide due to its high toxicity and industrial significance. Classification is determined by the chemical identity of the molecule (HCN). It applies to the acid in its pure form, whether as a liquid or a gas, and in aqueous solutions. Because it is a non-oxygenated acid (binary acid), it is grouped with other inorganic acids that do not contain oxygen, following the systematic chemical nomenclature used throughout the Harmonized System.

Products Included

• Hydrogen cyanide (anhydrous)
• Hydrocyanic acid (aqueous solutions)
• Prussic acid
• Formonitrile
• Liquid hydrogen cyanide
• Hydrogen cyanide gas

Common Misclassification

A frequent point of confusion is between hydrocyanic acid (281112) and cyanide salts, such as sodium cyanide, which are classified under HS code 283711. While the acid and the salts are chemically related, the HS system distinguishes between acids (Heading 2811) and salts (Heading 2837). Additionally, organic nitriles, which contain the cyano group attached to an organic radical, are classified in Chapter 29 (e.g., 292690). Importers must ensure that the product is indeed the inorganic acid and not an organic derivative or a metallic salt to ensure correct tariff application.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Hydrocyanic acid?

The HS code for hydrocyanic acid (hydrogen cyanide) is 281112.

Are cyanide salts included in this HS code?

No, cyanide salts like potassium or sodium cyanide are classified under heading 2837, not under the code for hydrocyanic acid.