Product classification

HS code for Lindane: 2903.81

Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons, 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH (ISO)), including lindane (ISO, INN).

Classification of lindane under HS 2903.81

Lindane is classified under HS code 2903.81 because it is a separate chemically defined organic compound. Specifically, it is a halogenated derivative of cyclanic, cyclenic, or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons. Lindane is the gamma-isomer of 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH). According to the Chapter 29 notes, this chapter generally includes separate chemical elements and separate chemically defined compounds. Since Lindane is a specific isomer with a defined molecular structure, it is placed here rather than in a general chemical mixture category. The classification is governed by General Interpretative Rule 1 and the specific language of subheading 2903.81, which explicitly mentions Lindane (ISO, INN). This code is used for the substance in its pure form or with added stabilizers necessary for preservation or transport, provided the additions do not render the product particularly suitable for specific use rather than for general use.

Covers
  • Pure gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane
  • Lindane (ISO) technical grade
  • Lindane (INN) pharmaceutical grade (unmixed)
  • 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (gamma-isomer)
Also under 2903.81
  • Kwell (historical pharmaceutical)
  • Gammexane (historical insecticide)
  • Scabene (historical topical treatment)

Codes often confused with 2903.81

Common mistake. Lindane is frequently misclassified under HS code 3808.91, which covers insecticides. While Lindane is used as an insecticide, Chapter 29 takes precedence if the product is a separate chemically defined compound. If the Lindane is formulated into a mixture or put up in forms or packings for retail sale as an insecticide, then 3808.91 would be correct. Another common error is using 2903.89 for other HCH isomers; however, 2903.81 is the specific mandatory code for the gamma-isomer (Lindane) and its HCH precursors as specified in the Harmonized System legal notes.

3808.91Insecticides; other than containing goods specified in Subheading Notes 1 & 2 to this Chapter; put up in forms or packings for retail sale or as preparations or articles2903.89Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons; n.e.c. in item no. 2903.8

Top exporters and importers of HS 290381 (the code used for lindane), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 290381 (the code used for lindane) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 50% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Austria, with 44% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Figures cover everything classified under HS 290381, not only lindane.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 Germany $452K
  2. 2 Belgium $208K
  3. 3 India $91K

World total: $895K Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Austria $334K
  2. 2 Belgium $131K
  3. 3 Pakistan $69K

World total: $753K Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

How these figures are built

109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).

Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.

Brazil NCM codes for lindane

Brazil splits HS 2903.81 into 4 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about lindane

What is the HS code for Lindane?

The HS code for Lindane is 290381 (Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons; 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH (ISO)), including lindane (ISO, INN)). The specific HS code for Lindane is 2903.81, which covers 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH (ISO)), including lindane (ISO, INN).

How do I classify Lindane for customs?

Lindane is classified under HS code 290381 — Halogenated derivatives of cyclanic, cyclenic or cycloterpenic hydrocarbons; 1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH (ISO)), including lindane (ISO, INN). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is Lindane subject to international trade restrictions?

Yes, Lindane is listed under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), meaning its trade is strictly regulated and often requires specific permits or is banned in many jurisdictions.

Which countries are the top exporters of lindane (HS 290381)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 290381 (the code used for lindane) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($452K, 50% of world exports), Belgium ($208K) and India ($91K). World exports came to about $895K, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Which countries are the top importers of lindane (HS 290381)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 290381 (the code used for lindane) in UN Comtrade data were Austria ($334K, 44% of world imports), Belgium ($131K) and Pakistan ($69K). World imports came to about $753K, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

Is the HS code for Lindane the same in all countries?

The base HS code 290381 for Lindane is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.

What is the NCM code for lindane in Brazil?

Brazil splits HS 290381 into 4 NCM codes, so the right one for lindane depends on the product's details: 2903.81.10 (Lindane (gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane)), 2903.81.20 (alpha-Hexachlorocyclohexane), 2903.81.30 (beta-Hexachlorocyclohexane), 2903.81.90 (Other hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH)).