HS Code for MEK

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as butanone, is classified under HS code 2914.12. This code is situated within Chapter 29, which encompasses organic chemicals. Heading 2914 specifically covers ketones and quinones, whether or not with other oxygen functions, and their derivatives. MEK is an acyclic ketone without other oxygen functions, and because of its high volume in global trade, it is granted its own specific subheading. The classification is based on the chemical structure of the molecule, which consists of a four-carbon chain with a carbonyl group. As a pure chemical compound, it must not be mixed with other solvents to remain in this heading. If MEK is part of a complex solvent blend, the classification logic changes entirely, moving from a specific chemical chapter to a functional preparation chapter. Proper identification requires a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm that the substance is indeed pure butanone.

Products Included

• Pure Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
• 2-Butanone
• Ethyl methyl ketone
• Methyl acetone (commercial name for MEK)
• Reagent grade butanone

Common Misclassification

MEK is often misclassified under HS code 2914.11, which is the code for Acetone, due to their similar solvent properties and chemical family. Another common error is using HS code 3814.00, which covers organic composite solvents and thinners. If the product is 100% MEK, it must be in 2914.12; code 3814.00 is only for mixtures of two or more organic solvents.

FAQ

What is the HS code for MEK?

The specific HS code for Methyl Ethyl Ketone is 2914.12.

Can MEK be classified under Chapter 38?

Only if it is part of a mixture. If it is a pure chemical compound, it is legally required to be classified in Chapter 29 under code 2914.12.