Product classification
HS code for R-22 refrigerant: 2903.71
Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens, chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22).
Classification of R-22 refrigerant under HS 2903.71
R-22 refrigerant, or chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22), is classified under HS code 2903.71. This classification falls under the halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens. As a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), R-22 is a separate chemically defined compound, which places it in Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) rather than Chapter 38 (Chemical Products). The specific heading 2903.71 is reserved for chlorodifluoromethane. This gas has been widely used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems, though its trade is heavily restricted in many jurisdictions. The classification is determined by the molecular structure of the gas, which consists of one carbon atom, one hydrogen atom, one chlorine atom, and two fluorine atoms. Accurate classification is essential for compliance with environmental regulations and quota systems governing the phase-out of HCFCs.
- Covers
- Pure Chlorodifluoromethane
- HCFC-22 gas
- R-22 refrigerant in bulk containers
- Monochlorodifluoromethane
- Also under 2903.71
- DuPont Freon 22
- Honeywell Genetron 22
- Mexichem R-22
- Arkema Forane 22
Codes often confused with 2903.71
Common mistake. A common misclassification occurs with HS code 3824.74, which covers mixtures containing HCFCs. If R-22 is blended with other refrigerants (like R-407C components), it loses its identity as a pure compound and must be classified in Chapter 38. It is also occasionally confused with 2903.39 (other fluorinated derivatives), but because R-22 contains both chlorine and fluorine, it must stay within the 2903.7x series. Another error is using 2903.72, which is specifically for R-123.
Top exporters and importers of HS 290371 (the code used for R-22 refrigerant), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 290371 (the code used for R-22 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 74% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 15% 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 290371, not only R-22 refrigerant.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $213M 74% of world exports
- 2 India $48M 17% of world exports
- 3 France $9.6M 3.3% of world exports
World total: $287M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Japan $40M 15% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$32M 12% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Brazil $31M 11% of world imports
World total: $275M 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 R-22 refrigerant
Brazil classifies R-22 refrigerant under NCM 2903.71.00: HS 2903.71 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about R-22 refrigerant
What is the HS code for R-22 refrigerant?
The HS code for R-22 refrigerant is 290371 (Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens; chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22)). The HS code for pure R-22 (chlorodifluoromethane) is 2903.71.
How do I classify R-22 refrigerant for customs?
R-22 refrigerant is classified under HS code 290371 — Halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons containing two or more different halogens; chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is R-22 subject to import restrictions?
Yes, R-22 is an ozone-depleting substance and is subject to strict import permits and phase-out schedules under the Montreal Protocol.
Which countries are the top exporters of R-22 refrigerant (HS 290371)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 290371 (the code used for R-22 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data were China ($213M, 74% of world exports), India ($48M) and France ($9.6M). World exports came to about $287M, 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-22 refrigerant (HS 290371)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 290371 (the code used for R-22 refrigerant) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($40M, 15% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $32M) and Brazil ($31M). World imports came to about $275M, 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-22 refrigerant the same in all countries?
The base HS code 290371 for R-22 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-22 refrigerant in Brazil?
In Brazil, R-22 refrigerant (HS 290371) is classified under NCM 2903.71.00.