HS Code for Monoethanolamine

Monoethanolamine (MEA), also known as 2-aminoethanol, is classified under HS code 2922.11. This classification is situated within Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2922 is designated for oxygen-function amino-compounds. Subheading 2922.11 is a specific entry for monoethanolamine and its salts. As a chemically defined organic compound, MEA must meet the purity requirements of Chapter Note 1 to Chapter 29 to be classified here. MEA is a viscous, hygroscopic liquid with an ammoniacal odor, widely used in industrial applications such as gas scrubbing (amine treating) to remove carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from gas streams. The classification covers the pure chemical and its various salts, such as monoethanolamine hydrochloride, provided they are not mixed with other substances for specific retail use.

Products Included

• Pure monoethanolamine (2-aminoethanol)
• Monoethanolamine hydrochloride
• Monoethanolamine sulfate
• Monoethanolamine oleate (as a salt)
• Technical grade monoethanolamine

Common Misclassification

Monoethanolamine is frequently confused with its related compounds, diethanolamine (2922.12) and triethanolamine (2922.13). While they belong to the same chemical family, the HS system provides distinct subheadings for each based on the number of ethanol groups attached to the nitrogen atom. Another common error involves mixtures; if MEA is part of a formulated detergent or a specialized gas-treating solvent mixture, it may be classified under 3402 (surfactants) or 3824 (prepared binders/chemical products) rather than the pure chemical code of 2922.11.

FAQ

What is the HS code for monoethanolamine?

The specific HS code for monoethanolamine and its salts is 2922.11.

Is MEA used in cosmetics classified under 2922.11?

If it is the pure chemical substance being imported as a raw material, yes. However, if it is part of a finished cosmetic preparation, it would be classified in Chapter 33.