Product classification
HS code for NPP: 2933.37
Heterocyclic compounds, containing an unfused pyridine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, N-phenethyl-4-piperdone (NPP).
Classification of NPP under HS 2933.37
N-phenethyl-4-piperidone, commonly known as NPP, is classified under HS code 2933.37. This classification is found within Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Heading 2933 is dedicated to heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only. Specifically, subheading 2933.37 is an explicit entry for N-phenethyl-4-piperidone. This chemical is a precursor used in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, most notably fentanyl and its analogues. Because of its role as a precursor, it is subject to international monitoring and strict trade controls under the 1988 UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. The classification is based on the molecular structure of the compound, which features an unfused pyridine ring (specifically a piperidine ring, which is a hydrogenated pyridine ring). According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI 1), the specific naming of the compound in the HS nomenclature takes precedence over more general categories. Accurate classification of NPP is critical for regulatory compliance, as misclassification can lead to severe legal penalties regarding the transport of controlled precursor chemicals. Customs authorities often require specific permits and end-use certificates for items under this code.
- Covers
- N-phenethyl-4-piperidone (NPP)
- NPP chemical intermediate (pure form)
- NPP salts (classified under the same code per Chapter 29 Note 5)
- Also under 2933.37
- Cayman Chemical NPP (forensic standard)
- Cerilliant NPP (analytical reference material)
Codes often confused with 2933.37
Common mistake. NPP is often misclassified under 2933.33, which covers Fentanyl and its derivatives, or 2933.39, which is the residual category for other pyridine derivatives. It may also be confused with 4-Piperidone (2933.39) or ANPP (4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine), which has its own specific code 2933.36.
Top exporters and importers of HS 293337 (the code used for NPP), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 293337 (the code used for NPP) in UN Comtrade data was the United Kingdom, with 75% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Indonesia, with 70% 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 293337, not only NPP.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United Kingdom $1.1M 75% of world exports
- 2 United States $193K 14% of world exports
- 3 France $156K 11% of world exports
World total: $1.4M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Indonesia $396K 70% of world imports
- 2 South Africa $85K 15% of world imports
- 3 Egypt $39K 6.9% of world imports
World total: $566K 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 code for NPP
Brazil classifies NPP under NCM 2933.37.00: HS 2933.37 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about NPP
What is the HS code for NPP?
The HS code for NPP is 293337 (Heterocyclic compounds; containing an unfused pyridine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, N-phenethyl-4-piperdone (NPP)). The specific HS code for N-phenethyl-4-piperidone (NPP) is 2933.37.
How do I classify NPP for customs?
NPP is classified under HS code 293337 — Heterocyclic compounds; containing an unfused pyridine ring (whether or not hydrogenated) in the structure, N-phenethyl-4-piperdone (NPP). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is NPP a controlled substance in international trade?
Yes, NPP is a List I precursor chemical and requires strict documentation and often an import/export permit due to its use in synthetic drug manufacturing.
Which countries are the top exporters of NPP (HS 293337)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 293337 (the code used for NPP) in UN Comtrade data were the United Kingdom ($1.1M, 75% of world exports), the United States ($193K) and France ($156K). World exports came to about $1.4M, 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 NPP (HS 293337)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 293337 (the code used for NPP) in UN Comtrade data were Indonesia ($396K, 70% of world imports), South Africa ($85K) and Egypt ($39K). World imports came to about $566K, 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 NPP the same in all countries?
The base HS code 293337 for NPP 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 NPP in Brazil?
In Brazil, NPP (HS 293337) is classified under NCM 2933.37.00.