Cumene (Isopropylbenzene)
Cumene, chemically known as isopropylbenzene (C6H5CH(CH3)2), is a colorless liquid cyclic hydrocarbon used primarily as an intermediate in phenol and acetone production. It falls under HTS 2902.70.00.00 as a separate chemically defined organic compound within the cyclic hydrocarbons subheading of Chapter 29.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If gasoline-blended or below 95% purity
Impure cumene or mixtures with acyclic hydrocarbons classified as light oils/fuels in Chapter 27, not pure organic compounds.
If containing stabilizers or impurities exceeding 1%
Cumene with added anti-oxidants or impurities becomes a chemical preparation rather than a separate compound.
If saturated acyclic isomer like isopropane dominant
Saturated acyclic hydrocarbons fall under acylic hydrocarbons heading, excluding aromatic cyclic structures like cumene.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Provide detailed chemical analysis certificates confirming 99%+ purity to avoid reclassification as mixtures
• Ensure proper UN-approved packaging (e.g
• IBCs or drums) with cumene-specific hazard labels for DOT compliance
• Include Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and verify REACH/ TSCA registration for US import clearance
Related Products under HTS 2902.70.00.00
Industrial Grade Cumene 99.5% Pure
High-purity industrial cumene (99.5% minimum isopropylbenzene) supplied in bulk for petrochemical synthesis, particularly the Hock process for phenol production. Classified under HTS 2902.70.00.00 as it meets Chapter 29 criteria for separate chemically defined cyclic hydrocarbons.
Phenol Process Cumene (Technical Grade)
Technical grade cumene optimized for air oxidation in phenol manufacturing, containing trace ethylbenzene impurities but primarily isopropylbenzene. HTS 2902.70.00.00 applies as the principal compound is chemically defined cumene per Chapter 29 note (a).
Cumene UN 1918 Drums
Cumene packaged in 55-gallon UN-approved steel drums (UN 1918) for safe transport, meeting DOT specifications for flammable liquids. Remains classified under HTS 2902.70.00.00 as packaging doesn't alter the chemically defined cyclic hydrocarbon nature per Chapter 29 notes.
High Purity Cumene for Acetone Production
Ultra-high purity cumene (>99.9%) specifically distilled for acetone co-production via cumene peroxidation process. Qualifies under HTS 2902.70.00.00 as a separate chemically defined organic compound without disqualifying additives or impurities.