Human Insulin (rDNA)
Recombinant human insulin produced via DNA technology is a synthetic reproduction of the natural hormone, structurally identical to human insulin. It is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00 as insulin, regardless of its method of production.
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 |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If imported in pre-filled syringes or vials for patient use
Retail-packaged insulin for therapeutic use falls under heading 30.04.
If the product is a modified insulin not classifiable as insulin itself
Derivatives not covered by the insulin subheading may fall under other polypeptide hormones.
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
• Maintain documentation proving the product is recombinant human insulin, including batch records and purity certificates
• Confirm whether the product is imported as bulk API or finished dosage form, as this affects classification
• Register with the CBSA as an importer and ensure compliance with the Food and Drugs Act
Related Products under Tariff item 2937.12.00
Bovine Insulin Crystals
Bovine insulin crystals are a highly purified, crystalline form of insulin derived from bovine pancreas. As a natural polypeptide hormone, it falls under tariff item 2937.12.00, which covers insulin and its salts, including natural or synthetic reproductions.
Insulin Aspart (NovoRapid)
Insulin aspart is a rapid-acting insulin analogue produced by recombinant DNA technology, with a single amino acid substitution compared to human insulin. As a structural analogue of insulin used primarily for its hormonal effect, it is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00.
Insulin Degludec API
Insulin degludec is an ultra-long-acting insulin analogue with a side-chain modification that promotes multi-hexamer formation. As a chain-modified polypeptide hormone used primarily as insulin, it is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00.
Insulin Detemir (Levemir)
Insulin detemir is a soluble long-acting insulin analogue with a fatty acid modification that enables albumin binding. As a derivative of insulin used primarily as a basal hormone replacement, it is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00.
Insulin Glargine (Lantus)
Insulin glargine is a long-acting basal insulin analogue produced by recombinant DNA technology, modified for a prolonged release profile. As a derivative and structural analogue of insulin used primarily as a hormone, it is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00.
Insulin Glulisine (Apidra)
Insulin glulisine is an ultra-rapid-acting insulin analogue with glycine and lysine modifications at the B-chain. As a recombinant DNA-produced structural analogue used primarily as a polypeptide hormone, it is classified under tariff item 2937.12.00.