HS Code for Quinine

Quinine and its derivatives are classified under HS code 2939.20. This code is situated within Chapter 29, which encompasses organic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2939 covers alkaloids of vegetable origin, their structural derivatives, and their salts. Quinine is a natural alkaloid extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree. The classification 2939.20 is reserved for the pure chemical compound and its salts (such as quinine sulfate or quinine hydrochloride) when they are not yet prepared as medicaments in measured doses or in forms for retail sale. The chemical purity and the absence of additives for therapeutic use are the primary factors for classification here. This follows GRI 1 and the Chapter 29 notes, which prioritize the chemical identity of the substance over its eventual application, provided it remains a separate chemically defined compound.

Products Included

• Quinine alkaloid powder
• Quinine sulfate and bisulfate
• Quinine hydrochloride
• Cinchona alkaloids and their salts

Common Misclassification

Quinine is frequently misclassified under HS code 3004.20 or 3004.90. These codes are for medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, put up in measured doses. If the quinine is in tablet or capsule form for treating malaria, it belongs in Chapter 30. Another error is classification under 2202.10 for tonic water; while tonic water contains quinine, it is a beverage and must be classified in Chapter 22 based on its food-grade preparation and sugar content.

FAQ

What is the HS code for quinine?

The HS code for quinine, its derivatives, and their salts as pure chemicals is 2939.20.

Is quinine in tablet form classified under 2939.20?

No, quinine tablets for medical use are classified under heading 3004 as prepared medicaments.