Polymer Grade Ethylene
Polymer grade ethylene (99.9%+) is a separate chemically defined organic compound used as a monomer. Its high purity and intended use do not affect classification; it falls under tariff item 2901.21.00.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the product is not pure ethylene but another acyclic hydrocarbon.
Other unsaturated acyclic hydrocarbons fall under this alternative.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Ensure the ethylene is not mixed with other monomers or additives that would change its classification
• For large-volume imports, consider using a customs broker familiar with chemical classifications
• Keep records of purity and any stabilizers added, as stabilizers are allowed only if necessary for preservation or transport
Related Products under Tariff item 2901.21.00
Cryogenic Liquid Ethylene
Cryogenic liquid ethylene is pure ethylene (C2H4) maintained in a liquefied state at approximately -103°C for efficient bulk transport. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound, and its physical state does not alter its classification under tariff item 2901.21.00.
Ethylene Calibration Gas 1.0%
This candidate is a mixture of 1.0% ethylene in nitrogen, used as a calibration gas. Chapter 29 note 1 covers separate chemically defined compounds and specific solutions, but this diluted mixture is not a normal method of putting up ethylene for its general use; it is specifically prepared for calibration, thus it does not meet the criteria for classification under this chapter.
Ethylene for Ethylbenzene Production
Ultra-high purity ethylene (99.99%) intended for ethylbenzene production is a separate chemically defined organic compound. Its specific end-use does not affect classification; it remains ethylene under tariff item 2901.21.00.
Ethylene for Fruit Ripening (Technical Grade)
Technical grade ethylene gas (98%+) for fruit ripening is a separate chemically defined organic compound, even with impurities. Chapter 29 note 1(a) allows for impurities, so this product falls under tariff item 2901.21.00.
Ethylene for LDPE Autoclave Process
Specially purified ethylene for LDPE autoclave production is a separate chemically defined compound. The low metal and sulfur content does not change its classification; it remains ethylene under tariff item 2901.21.00.
Medical Grade Ethylene for Anesthesia
Medical grade ethylene for anesthesia is a separate chemically defined organic compound, even if it meets USP standards. The product is still ethylene and falls under tariff item 2901.21.00, provided it is not put up in measured doses or for retail sale as a pharmaceutical product.