Product classification
HS code for Trichloroethylene: 2903.22
Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, trichloroethylene.
Classification of trichloroethylene under HS 2903.22
Trichloroethylene is classified under HS code 2903.22. This classification is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1 and 6. Within Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals, Heading 2903 is reserved for halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Trichloroethylene is an acyclic hydrocarbon where three hydrogen atoms have been replaced by chlorine atoms, and it contains a double bond, making it an unsaturated derivative. Because the Harmonized System provides a specific six-digit subheading (2903.22) for this exact chemical compound, it must be classified there rather than under more general categories. The chemical structure, defined by the formula C2HCl3, dictates its placement within the unsaturated chlorinated derivatives group. This code is used globally to track the trade of this volatile organic compound, which is primarily utilized as an industrial solvent and degreasing agent. Proper classification ensures compliance with environmental regulations, such as the Montreal Protocol or local VOC emission standards, which often monitor trichloroethylene due to its toxicity and environmental impact.
- Covers
- Industrial grade trichloroethylene
- High-purity TCE for laboratory use
- Degreasing solvents consisting of pure trichloroethylene
- Electronic grade trichloroethylene
- Also under 2903.22
- Dow Chemical Trichloroethylene (for feedstock)
- Westlake Chemical Trichloroethylene
- Sigma-Aldrich Trichloroethylene (lab grade)
Codes often confused with 2903.22
Common mistake. Trichloroethylene is frequently confused with Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene), which is classified under HS code 2903.23. While both are unsaturated chlorinated hydrocarbons used in degreasing and dry cleaning, they are distinct chemical entities. Another common error is classifying trichloroethylene mixtures under 3814.00, which covers organic composite solvents. If the product is a mixture of solvents rather than a separate chemically defined compound, 3814.00 is correct, but pure trichloroethylene must remain in 2903.22.
Top exporters and importers of HS 290322 (the code used for trichloroethylene), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 290322 (the code used for trichloroethylene) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 56% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 18% 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 290322, not only trichloroethylene.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $26M 56% of world exports
- 2 Japan $9.3M 20% of world exports
- 3 United States $3.4M 7.4% of world exports
World total: $46M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $8.3M 18% of world imports
- 2 United States $7.9M 17% of world imports
- 3 South Korea $3.6M 7.5% of world imports
World total: $47M 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 trichloroethylene
Brazil classifies trichloroethylene under NCM 2903.22.00: HS 2903.22 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about trichloroethylene
What is the HS code for Trichloroethylene?
The HS code for Trichloroethylene is 290322 (Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; trichloroethylene). The international HS code for Trichloroethylene is 2903.22, which specifically identifies it as an unsaturated chlorinated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons.
How do I classify Trichloroethylene for customs?
Trichloroethylene is classified under HS code 290322 — Unsaturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; trichloroethylene. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is Trichloroethylene subject to environmental import restrictions?
Yes, many countries regulate the import of 2903.22 under environmental laws due to its status as a volatile organic compound (VOC) and potential carcinogen.
Which countries are the top exporters of trichloroethylene (HS 290322)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 290322 (the code used for trichloroethylene) in UN Comtrade data were China ($26M, 56% of world exports), Japan ($9.3M) and the United States ($3.4M). World exports came to about $46M, 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 trichloroethylene (HS 290322)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 290322 (the code used for trichloroethylene) in UN Comtrade data were India ($8.3M, 18% of world imports), the United States ($7.9M) and South Korea ($3.6M). World imports came to about $47M, 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 Trichloroethylene the same in all countries?
The base HS code 290322 for Trichloroethylene 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 trichloroethylene in Brazil?
In Brazil, trichloroethylene (HS 290322) is classified under NCM 2903.22.00.