Tris(2-chloroethyl) Phosphate (TCEP)
Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) is a halogenated triester of phosphoric acid, used as a flame retardant in polyurethane foam, textiles, and plastics. Its chlorine substituents make it a halogenated derivative of an inorganic acid ester, explicitly included in heading 29.20. Regulatory restrictions in Canada may affect its use in certain consumer products.
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 compound is presented as a phosphoric ester without halogenation on the alcohol moiety
Non-halogenated phosphoric esters are more specifically covered by heading 29.19.
If imported as a component of a prepared flame-retardant additive for lubricants or fuels
Prepared additives for lubricating oils or fuels are classified in heading 38.11.
If the product contains significant impurities or is a mixture of similar phosphate esters
Mixtures of chemicals not meeting Chapter 29 purity criteria fall under heading 38.24.
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
• TCEP is listed as a substance of concern under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act; you may need to demonstrate compliance with use restrictions or obtain an exemption
• Ensure the product is not formulated with other flame retardants—if it is a mixture, it may fall under heading 38.13 instead
• Keep detailed records of the end-use application, as CBSA may request evidence that the product is not for prohibited consumer goods
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.