Product classification
HS code for R-123 refrigerant: 2903.72
Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens, dichlorotrifluoroethane (HCFC-123).
Classification of R-123 refrigerant under HS 2903.72
R-123 refrigerant, chemically known as dichlorotrifluoroethane (HCFC-123), is classified under HS code 2903.72. This classification is part of the halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons. Under the Harmonized System, Chapter 29 covers organic chemicals, and heading 2903 specifically addresses halogenated derivatives. The subcategory 2903.72 is designated for dichlorotrifluoroethanes. This classification is precise because R-123 is a single, chemically defined compound. It is used primarily as a refrigerant in centrifugal chillers and as a blowing agent. Because it contains chlorine, fluorine, and hydrogen, it is categorized as a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). The classification is strictly regulated due to environmental protocols, and the HS code ensures that customs authorities can monitor the trade of ozone-depleting substances as required by the Montreal Protocol.
- Covers
- Pure R-123 (Dichlorotrifluoroethane)
- HCFC-123 refrigerant gas
- 2,2-Dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane
- R-123 pressurized in cylinders for industrial cooling
- Also under 2903.72
- Honeywell Genetron 123
- Arkema Forane 123
- Chemours Opteon XP10 (as replacement, not HCFC-123 itself)
- Daikin R-123
Codes often confused with 2903.72
Common mistake. R-123 is often misclassified under 3824.74, which is the code for mixtures containing hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). If the refrigerant is a blend of different gases rather than pure R-123, it must be moved to Chapter 38. It is also sometimes confused with 2903.71 (R-22), but 2903.72 is specific to the chemical structure of dichlorotrifluoroethane. Importers must ensure the chemical purity exceeds 95% to remain in Chapter 29; otherwise, it may be viewed as a chemical preparation.
Top exporters and importers of HS 290372 (the code used for R-123 refrigerant), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 290372 (the code used for R-123 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 85% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 30% 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 290372, not only R-123 refrigerant.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $12M 85% of world exports
- 2 Germany $719K 5.3% of world exports
- 3 United States $573K 4.2% of world exports
World total: $14M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $4.4M 30% of world imports
- 2 South Korea $2.8M 19% of world imports
- 3 Thailand $1.3M 8.9% of world imports
World total: $15M 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 R-123 refrigerant
Brazil classifies R-123 refrigerant under NCM 2903.72.00: HS 2903.72 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about R-123 refrigerant
What is the HS code for R-123 refrigerant?
The HS code for R-123 refrigerant is 290372 (Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens; dichlorotrifluoroethane (HCFC-123)). The HS code for pure R-123 refrigerant (dichlorotrifluoroethane) is 2903.72.
How do I classify R-123 refrigerant for customs?
R-123 refrigerant is classified under HS code 290372 — Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens; dichlorotrifluoroethane (HCFC-123). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can R-123 be classified in Chapter 38?
Only if it is part of a mixture or blend; pure R-123 is a chemically defined compound in Chapter 29.
Which countries are the top exporters of R-123 refrigerant (HS 290372)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 290372 (the code used for R-123 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data were China ($12M, 85% of world exports), Germany ($719K) and the United States ($573K). World exports came to about $14M, 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 R-123 refrigerant (HS 290372)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 290372 (the code used for R-123 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($4.4M, 30% of world imports), South Korea ($2.8M) and Thailand ($1.3M). World imports came to about $15M, 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 R-123 refrigerant the same in all countries?
The base HS code 290372 for R-123 refrigerant 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 R-123 refrigerant in Brazil?
In Brazil, R-123 refrigerant (HS 290372) is classified under NCM 2903.72.00.