Product classification
HS code for Polyvinyl acetate dispersion: 3905.12
Poly(vinyl acetate), in aqueous dispersion, in primary forms.
Classification of polyvinyl acetate dispersion under HS 3905.12
HS code 3905.12 is designated for polyvinyl acetate (PVA) in aqueous dispersion, in primary forms. In the context of the Harmonized System, an aqueous dispersion refers to a system where polymer particles are suspended in water, often stabilized by surfactants or protective colloids. This is commonly known as PVA emulsion or \"white glue\" in its raw, bulk state. The classification falls under Chapter 39, which covers plastics and polymers. To qualify for 3905.12, the product must be in a primary form as defined by Note 6 to Chapter 39 and must consist predominantly of vinyl acetate polymers. These dispersions are critical raw materials for the adhesive industry, particularly for wood and paper bonding, as well as for the textile industry as sizing agents. The classification is straightforward but requires confirmation that the medium is water-based. If the polymer were dissolved in an organic solvent or presented in a solid form, it would be excluded from this specific subheading and moved to 3905.19. Furthermore, if the dispersion has been modified with pigments and other additives to function as a paint or varnish, it would be classified under 3209.10. The distinction between a primary form polymer and a prepared coating or adhesive is a common point of contention in customs audits. 3905.12 is strictly for the polymer dispersion before it has been fully formulated into a consumer-ready product.
- Covers
- Aqueous polyvinyl acetate emulsions
- Bulk white wood glue (unformulated)
- PVA water-based binders for textiles
- Vinyl acetate polymer dispersions in water
- Liquid PVA primary forms
- Also under 3905.12
- Elmer's Glue-All
- Titebond Original Wood Glue
- BASF Acronal
- Wacker Vinnapas
- Celanese Emulsions
Codes often confused with 3905.12
Common mistake. PVA dispersions are often misclassified under 3209.10, which covers paints and varnishes based on synthetic polymers dispersed in an aqueous medium. If the product contains pigments, it belongs in 3209. Another common error is using 3905.19, which is for non-aqueous or solid forms of PVA. Finally, if the dispersion is packaged for retail sale as a glue (under 1kg), it must be classified under 3506.10.
Top exporters and importers of HS 390512 (the code used for polyvinyl acetate dispersion), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 390512 (the code used for polyvinyl acetate dispersion) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 25% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 10% 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 390512, not only polyvinyl acetate dispersion.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $62M 25% of world exports
- 2 Italy $29M 12% of world exports
- 3 Canada $24M 9.5% of world exports
World total: $249M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $26M 10% of world imports
- 2 Italy $17M 6.6% of world imports
- 3 Germany $16M 6.4% of world imports
World total: $253M 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 polyvinyl acetate dispersion
Brazil classifies polyvinyl acetate dispersion under NCM 3905.12.00: HS 3905.12 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about polyvinyl acetate dispersion
What is the HS code for Polyvinyl acetate dispersion?
The HS code for Polyvinyl acetate dispersion is 390512 (Poly(vinyl acetate); in aqueous dispersion, in primary forms). The HS code for polyvinyl acetate in aqueous dispersion is 3905.12.
How do I classify Polyvinyl acetate dispersion for customs?
Polyvinyl acetate dispersion is classified under HS code 390512 — Poly(vinyl acetate); in aqueous dispersion, in primary forms. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can 3905.12 be used for wood glue?
Yes, if the wood glue is a basic aqueous PVA dispersion in bulk primary form. If it is a complex formulation or in small retail packs, 3506 is used.
Which countries are the top exporters of polyvinyl acetate dispersion (HS 390512)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 390512 (the code used for polyvinyl acetate dispersion) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($62M, 25% of world exports), Italy ($29M) and Canada ($24M). World exports came to about $249M, 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 polyvinyl acetate dispersion (HS 390512)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 390512 (the code used for polyvinyl acetate dispersion) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($26M, 10% of world imports), Italy ($17M) and Germany ($16M). World imports came to about $253M, 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 Polyvinyl acetate dispersion the same in all countries?
The base HS code 390512 for Polyvinyl acetate dispersion 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 polyvinyl acetate dispersion in Brazil?
In Brazil, polyvinyl acetate dispersion (HS 390512) is classified under NCM 3905.12.00.