Product classification
HS code for Tributyltin: 2931.20
Organo-inorganic compounds, tributyltin compounds.
Classification of tributyltin under HS 2931.20
Tributyltin compounds are classified under HS code 2931.20. This code is located within Chapter 29, which encompasses organic chemicals. Heading 2931 is a broad category for other organo-inorganic compounds. These are compounds where a carbon atom is linked directly to a heteroatom, such as tin, lead, or phosphorus, other than hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, or halogens. Subheading 2931.20 was specifically created to monitor and control tributyltin compounds due to their environmental impact and toxicity, particularly in marine environments. Classification is based on the chemical structure of the molecule, where three butyl groups are bonded to a central tin atom. This specific subheading ensures that these substances are tracked accurately in international trade, separate from other organo-tin compounds. The classification follows GRI 1, as the heading and subheading specifically name these compounds. It is important to note that this code applies to chemically defined tributyltin compounds in their pure or technically pure state. Mixtures or formulated products containing these compounds may be classified elsewhere depending on their use and composition.
- Covers
- Tributyltin oxide (TBTO)
- Tributyltin fluoride
- Tributyltin chloride
- Tributyltin methacrylate
- Tributyltin benzoate
- Also under 2931.20
- Sigma-Aldrich TBTO
- Merck TBTC
- Arkema TBT compounds (historical)
- Dow Chemical TBT (historical)
Codes often confused with 2931.20
Common mistake. Tributyltin compounds are often misclassified under HS code 2931.90, which is a residual category for other organo-inorganic compounds. However, because 2931.20 is a specific named subheading for tributyltin, it takes precedence. Another common error involves HS code 3808, which covers insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides. If the tributyltin is formulated as a finished biocide or anti-fouling agent for retail sale, it must be classified in Chapter 38 rather than Chapter 29.
Top exporters and importers of HS 293120 (the code used for tributyltin), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 293120 (the code used for tributyltin) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 35% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Belgium, with 33% 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 293120, not only tributyltin.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $1.6M 35% of world exports
- 2 Germany $804K 18% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $653K 15% of world exports
World total: $4.5M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Belgium $3.4M 33% of world imports
- 2 Italy $1.1M 11% of world imports
- 3 India $1.1M 10% of world imports
World total: $10M 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 tributyltin
Brazil classifies tributyltin under NCM 2931.20.00: HS 2931.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about tributyltin
What is the HS code for Tributyltin?
The HS code for Tributyltin is 293120 (Organo-inorganic compounds; tributyltin compounds). The HS code for tributyltin compounds is 2931.20, classified as organo-inorganic compounds.
How do I classify Tributyltin for customs?
Tributyltin is classified under HS code 293120 — Organo-inorganic compounds; tributyltin compounds. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are all organo-tin compounds classified under 2931.20?
No, only tributyltin compounds are classified under 2931.20. Other organo-tin compounds, such as dibutyltin or monobutyltin, are generally classified under 2931.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of tributyltin (HS 293120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 293120 (the code used for tributyltin) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.6M, 35% of world exports), Germany ($804K) and the Netherlands ($653K). World exports came to about $4.5M, 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 tributyltin (HS 293120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 293120 (the code used for tributyltin) in UN Comtrade data were Belgium ($3.4M, 33% of world imports), Italy ($1.1M) and India ($1.1M). World imports came to about $10M, 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 Tributyltin the same in all countries?
The base HS code 293120 for Tributyltin 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 tributyltin in Brazil?
In Brazil, tributyltin (HS 293120) is classified under NCM 2931.20.00.