Triphenyl Phosphate (TPP)
Triphenyl phosphate (TPP) is an ester of phosphoric acid and phenol, used as a flame retardant and plasticizer in PVC, polyurethane foam, and engineering plastics. As a non-metal inorganic acid ester, it falls squarely within heading 29.20, and this tariff item covers the residual 'Other' category. The compound is chemically defined and meets the chapter's requirements for separate organic compounds.
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 ester is derived from a phosphoric acid with organic alcohol groups that are not phenols
Heading 29.19 covers phosphoric esters and their salts, including lactophosphates, which may be more specific than the residual heading 29.20.
If the product is a technical-grade mixture with isomers or impurities that prevent classification as a single chemically defined compound
Chemical products and preparations not elsewhere specified fall under heading 38.24 when they do not meet Chapter 29 purity standards.
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
• Confirm that your TPP is not mixed with other substances; if it contains additives or is part of a formulated flame-retardant blend, classification may shift to heading 38.13 or 38.24
• Provide a certificate of analysis showing purity above 95% to support classification as a separate chemically defined compound
• Check whether the product is on the Domestic Substances List; if not, a new substance notification may be required before import
Related Products under Tariff item 2920.90.00
Antimony Glycolate Ester
Antimony glycolate ester is an antimony(III) ethane-1,2-diolate used as a catalyst in PET resin production and as a flame retardant synergist. It is classified under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an ester salt of an inorganic acid of a non-metal. Its role in polymer production and ester structure determine its classification.
Arsenic Acid Methyl Ester
Arsenic acid methyl ester is a monomethyl arsenate used as a herbicide intermediate and wood preservative component. It is classified under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an ester of an inorganic acid of a non-metal. Its arsenic content and ester structure determine its classification, and it is highly regulated due to toxicity.
Boric Acid Trimethyl Ester
Boric acid trimethyl ester, also known as trimethyl borate, is an ester of boric acid and methanol, used as a boron source in ceramics, flame retardants, and organic synthesis. It is a chemically defined ester of an inorganic acid of a non-metal (boron) and falls under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an 'other' ester of inorganic acids of non-metals.
Chlorpyrifos-methyl
Chlorpyrifos-methyl is an organophosphate insecticide used to control a broad range of pests on grains, vegetables, and turf. As a methyl ester of chlorpyrifos, it is classified under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an ester of an inorganic acid of a non-metal. Its aromatic structure and pesticide function align with the scope of this heading.
Cresyl Diphenyl Phosphate
Cresyl diphenyl phosphate is a mixed aromatic phosphate ester combining cresyl and phenyl groups, used primarily as a flame retardant and plasticizer in hydraulic fluids and engineering plastics. It is a chemically defined ester of phosphoric acid, an inorganic acid of a non-metal (phosphorus), and therefore falls under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an 'other' ester of inorganic acids of non-metals.
Dichlorvos (DDVP)
Dichlorvos (DDVP) is a vinyl phosphate ester pesticide used in fumigation and vaporizers for household and agricultural insect control. It is classified under tariff item 2920.90.00 as an ester of an inorganic acid of a non-metal. Its phosphate ester structure and pesticide application determine its classification.