Product classification
HS code for Pentachlorobenzene: 2903.93
Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons, pentachlorobenzene (ISO).
Classification of pentachlorobenzene under HS 2903.93
Pentachlorobenzene is classified under HS code 2903.93 as a halogenated derivative of aromatic hydrocarbons. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Chapter 29 covers organic chemicals, and heading 2903 is dedicated to halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Pentachlorobenzene is a specific aromatic hydrocarbon where five hydrogen atoms on the benzene ring have been replaced by chlorine. Because it is a separate chemically defined compound, it must be classified within Chapter 29 rather than as a mixture in Chapter 38. The specific subheading 2903.93 was established to monitor this substance due to its environmental impact and its inclusion in international treaties like the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. The classification remains consistent regardless of the grade, provided it is not mixed with other substances for specific functional uses beyond preservation or transport safety.
- Covers
- Pure pentachlorobenzene (98% or higher purity)
- Technical grade pentachlorobenzene
- Pentachlorobenzene for laboratory analytical use
- ISO standard reference materials of pentachlorobenzene
- Also under 2903.93
PeCB (as a chemical compound, historically used in some industrial formulations).
Codes often confused with 2903.93
Common mistake. This product is frequently confused with hexachlorobenzene, which is classified under HS code 2903.92. While both are chlorinated benzenes, the number of chlorine atoms dictates the specific subheading. Another common error is classifying pentachlorobenzene under 3824.86. However, 3824.86 is reserved for mixtures and preparations containing the substance, not the pure chemical itself. Importers must distinguish between the pure aromatic hydrocarbon (Chapter 29) and formulated products (Chapter 38).
Top exporters and importers of HS 290393 (the code used for pentachlorobenzene), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 290393 (the code used for pentachlorobenzene) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 95% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Canada, with 98% of world imports. Mexico reports $578M of its heading 2903 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 290393, not only pentachlorobenzene.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $642K 95% of world exports
- 2 India $22K 3.3% of world exports
- 3 Germany $5K 0.7% of world exports
World total: $677K Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Canada $643K 98% of world imports
- 2 Indonesia $4K 0.7% of world imports
- 3 Djibouti* ~$2K 0.3% of world imports · partner records ↗
Mexico reports $578M of its heading 2903 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
World total: $655K 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 pentachlorobenzene
Brazil classifies pentachlorobenzene under NCM 2903.93.00: HS 2903.93 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about pentachlorobenzene
What is the HS code for Pentachlorobenzene?
The HS code for Pentachlorobenzene is 290393 (Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons; pentachlorobenzene (ISO)). The specific HS code for pentachlorobenzene is 2903.93, which falls under the category of halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons.
How do I classify Pentachlorobenzene for customs?
Pentachlorobenzene is classified under HS code 290393 — Halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons; pentachlorobenzene (ISO). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is pentachlorobenzene subject to environmental regulations during import?
Yes, as a persistent organic pollutant (POP), its trade is strictly controlled under the Stockholm Convention, and many countries require specific permits or prohibit its import entirely, despite having a designated HS code.
Which countries are the top exporters of pentachlorobenzene (HS 290393)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 290393 (the code used for pentachlorobenzene) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($642K, 95% of world exports), India ($22K) and Germany ($5K). World exports came to about $677K, 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 pentachlorobenzene (HS 290393)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 290393 (the code used for pentachlorobenzene) in UN Comtrade data were Canada ($643K, 98% of world imports), Indonesia ($4K) and Djibouti (about $2K). World imports came to about $655K, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Mexico reports $578M of its heading 2903 imports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Is the HS code for Pentachlorobenzene the same in all countries?
The base HS code 290393 for Pentachlorobenzene 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 pentachlorobenzene in Brazil?
In Brazil, pentachlorobenzene (HS 290393) is classified under NCM 2903.93.00.