HBCD α-Isomer Flame Retardant from Japan
Alpha-isomer specific hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), a stereoisomer used in eco-friendlier flame retardant formulations for electronics housing. Classified under 2903.89.70.10 as 'other HBCDs' per Chapter 29 note (b) for mixtures of isomers, though supplied as separated isomer of the brominated cyclododecane. Its halogenated cyclic hydrocarbon structure defines its placement.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
23.8%
Rate breakdown
9903.04.6211.3%Patented pharmaceutical articles that are the product of Japan, of a European Union member country, of South Korea, of Switzerland, or of Liechtenstein as provided for in subdivisions (c) and (f) of U.S. note 40 to this subchapter
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Provide stereoisomer composition analysis (NMR/GC) to distinguish from generic HBCD and confirm chemical definition
• Check Stockholm Convention restrictions; many countries ban commercial HBCD mixtures except specific isomers
• Label with exact isomer ratio to prevent reclassification as unspecified HBCD under same code