HS Code for Penicillin

Penicillin in its raw or bulk form is classified under HS code 294110. This classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Heading 2941 is dedicated to antibiotics, and subheading 294110 specifically identifies penicillins and their derivatives with a penicillanic acid structure, including their salts. To qualify for this code, the substance must be a separate chemically defined compound, typically the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) before it has been formulated into a finished medicament. The classification relies on the molecular structure, which must feature the characteristic fused beta-lactam and thiazolidine rings. This code is used by chemical manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies importing raw materials for further processing or formulation. It excludes any penicillin that has been mixed with excipients or put up in measured doses for therapeutic use, as those are moved to Chapter 30.

Products Included

• Amoxicillin in bulk powder form
• Ampicillin and its salts
• Penicillin G potassium (bulk)
• Penicillin V free acid
• 6-Aminopenicillanic acid (6-APA)
• Benzylpenicillin sodium

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 300410. While 294110 is for the bulk chemical substance, 300410 is for the finished medicine in retail packaging or measured doses. Another common error is using 294120, which is specifically for streptomycins and their derivatives, or 294190, which is a residual category for other antibiotics like erythromycin or tetracycline.

FAQ

What is the HS code for penicillin?

The HS code for bulk penicillin and its derivatives with a penicillanic acid structure is 294110.

Does this code include penicillin tablets?

No, penicillin tablets are considered finished medicaments and are classified under HS code 300410, not the bulk chemical code 294110.