HS Code for Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
The HS Code for isopropyl alcohol (ipa) is 290512. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 5.5%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 290512 |
|---|---|
| US HTS (10-digit) | 2905120000 |
| EU CN Code (8-digit) | 29051200 |
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 5.5% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 5.5% |
| Chapter | 29 |
| Heading | 2905 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Propan-1-ol (propyl alcohol) and propan-2-ol (isopropyl alcohol)
HS Code 290512 covers isopropyl alcohol (propan-2-ol) with a US MFN duty rate of 5.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What determines whether isopropyl alcohol is classified under HTS 290512.0000 or as a chemical preparation under a different heading?
Classification under HTS 290512 is for isopropyl alcohol (propan-2-ol) that is chemically pure, typically 99% or higher concentration. If the IPA is blended with other substances (e.g., denaturants, stabilizers, or water creating a specific grade like 70% IPA solution for disinfectants), it generally becomes a preparation and is classified elsewhere, such as in heading 3808. The specific composition and intended use dictate the final classification.
What specific customs inspection risks are associated with importing Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) under HTS 290512?
Shipments of Isopropyl Alcohol are high-risk for customs inspection due to its common use as a disinfectant and potential diversion for illicit drug manufacturing or hand sanitizer production requiring FDA oversight. Inspectors will rigorously verify the Certificate of Analysis for purity and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to ensure proper hazard classification. They may also physically sample the cargo to confirm it matches the declared concentration and is not adulterated or misdeclared to evade anti-dumping duties or excise taxes.
What additional tariffs or duties beyond the general MFN rate apply to U.S. imports of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) under HTS 290512?
IPA under HTS 290512 is currently subject to a 25% additional tariff under Section 301 for imports originating from China (List 3). Furthermore, imports from most countries are subject to an Anti-Dumping/Countervailing Duty (AD/CVD) order, requiring cash deposits and potentially significant final duties upon investigation completion.
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Classification by Material Variants
Classification under 2905.12.0000 is strictly for isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) of a purity of 70% or more by volume. Mixtures with different alcohol concentrations or with significant additives are classified elsewhere. For example, rubbing alcohol or disinfectant wipes containing less than 70% IPA fall under 3808.94 (disinfectants). Hand sanitizers and similar preparations are classified in heading 3808, typically under 3808.94.50. Pure, unadulterated IPA used as a chemical feedstock or solvent must meet the 70%+ purity threshold to remain in 2905.12.
Alternative Classification: IPA vs. Ethanol
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is most distinctly confused with ethyl alcohol (ethanol). IPA is correctly classified under 2905.12. Ethanol of 80% vol. or higher is classified under heading 2207 (e.g., 2207.10). For denatured ethanol mixtures, other headings like 2207.20 apply. Confusion often arises because both are common industrial solvents, but they are derived from different chemical processes and have distinct headings.