HS Code for Paraxylene

Paraxylene (p-xylene) is classified under HS code 2902.43. It falls under Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals, and specifically heading 2902, which is dedicated to cyclic hydrocarbons. Within this heading, xylenes are grouped together, but p-xylene is given its own subheading (2902.43) due to its industrial importance as a precursor for terephthalic acid and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The classification is based on the chemical purity of the isomer. For a product to be classified under 2902.43, it must be a separate chemically defined compound, typically with a purity exceeding 95% by weight. If the product were a mixture of xylene isomers where no single isomer predominated to the level of a pure chemical, it might be classified differently, but standard commercial paraxylene is typically high purity. This code excludes xylene mixtures obtained from coal tar distillation that do not meet the purity requirements of Chapter 29, which would instead fall under Chapter 27. The classification logic follows GRI 1 and 6, focusing on the aromatic hydrocarbon structure. Paraxylene is an isomer of dimethylbenzene, and its specific para-substitution (1,4-dimethylbenzene) is the defining characteristic for this subheading. In global trade, this chemical is a high-volume commodity, and its classification is critical for monitoring the supply chain of synthetic fibers and plastic bottles.

Products Included

• Pure p-Xylene (1,4-dimethylbenzene)
• High-purity paraxylene (95%+)
• Technical grade paraxylene
• Isolated paraxylene isomers

Common Misclassification

Paraxylene is often confused with 2707.30 (Xylols/Xylenes from coal tar) or 2902.44 (Mixed xylene isomers). If the purity is low or it is a crude distillation product, Chapter 27 is appropriate. If it is a mixture of ortho, meta, and para isomers, 2902.44 is used instead of 2902.43.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Paraxylene?

The HS code for Paraxylene is 2902.43.

What is the difference between 2902.43 and 2902.44?

2902.43 is specifically for the isolated para-isomer of xylene, while 2902.44 is for mixtures containing multiple xylene isomers (ortho, meta, and para).