Product classification
HS code for Methionine: 2930.40
Organo-sulphur compounds, methionine.
Classification of methionine under HS 2930.40
Methionine is classified under HS code 2930.40. This classification is based on its molecular structure as an organo-sulphur compound. While methionine is an amino acid, the Harmonized System dictates that organo-sulphur compounds are classified under heading 2930, which takes precedence over other headings in Chapter 29 that might otherwise apply to amino acids (such as 2922). Methionine contains a thioether group, making the presence of the sulfur atom the defining characteristic for its HS placement. This code covers both the DL-methionine (the synthetic form commonly used in animal feed) and the L-methionine (the naturally occurring isomer). Because methionine is a critical nutrient in the poultry and livestock industries, having a dedicated subheading (2930.40) allows for precise tracking of its global trade and ensures consistent application of customs duties for this essential amino acid.
- Covers
- DL-Methionine
- L-Methionine
- Methionine for pharmaceutical use
- Feed-grade methionine powder
- Crystalline methionine
- Also under 2930.40
- Evonik (DL-Methionine)
- Adisseo (DL-Methionine)
- Ajinomoto (L-Methionine)
- CJ CheilJedang
Codes often confused with 2930.40
Common mistake. A frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 2922.49, which covers "other" amino acids. Many users assume all amino acids belong in heading 2922; however, the presence of sulfur atoms moves methionine to 2930.40. Another common error is 2309.90, which covers preparations of a kind used in animal feeding. If methionine is pure, it must be in 2930.40. It only moves to 2309.90 if it has been mixed with other ingredients or carriers to form a prepared feed supplement.
Top exporters and importers of HS 293040 (the code used for methionine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 293040 (the code used for methionine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 53% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 15% 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 293040, not only methionine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $762M 53% of world exports
- 2 Malaysia $234M 16% of world exports
- 3 France $161M 11% of world exports
World total: $1.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $429M 15% of world imports
- 2 Brazil $192M 6.9% of world imports
- 3 India $168M 6.0% of world imports
World total: $2.8B 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 methionine
Brazil splits HS 2930.40 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 2930.40.10DL-Methionine, sulphated ash exceeding 0.1%
- 2930.40.90Other methionine
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about methionine
What is the HS code for Methionine?
The HS code for Methionine is 293040 (Organo-sulphur compounds; methionine). The HS code for methionine is 2930.40, classified under organo-sulphur compounds.
How do I classify Methionine for customs?
Methionine is classified under HS code 293040 — Organo-sulphur compounds; methionine. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is methionine hydroxy analogue (MHA) under the same code?
No, methionine hydroxy analogue is typically classified under HS code 2930.90 because it lacks the amino group required to be considered the exact chemical methionine defined in 2930.40.
Which countries are the top exporters of methionine (HS 293040)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 293040 (the code used for methionine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($762M, 53% of world exports), Malaysia ($234M) and France ($161M). World exports came to about $1.4B, 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 methionine (HS 293040)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 293040 (the code used for methionine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($429M, 15% of world imports), Brazil ($192M) and India ($168M). World imports came to about $2.8B, 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 Methionine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 293040 for Methionine 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 methionine in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 293040 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for methionine depends on the product's details: 2930.40.10 (DL-Methionine, sulphated ash exceeding 0.1%), 2930.40.90 (Other methionine).