Dimethyl Terephthalate (DMT)
Dimethyl terephthalate is the dimethyl ester of terephthalic acid, an aromatic polycarboxylic acid derivative used in polyester fiber and film production. Classified under HTS 2917.39.30.00 due to inclusion in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for quota-controlled aromatic compounds.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If not subject to note 3 quota
Non-quota aromatic polycarboxylic acid derivatives fall under general 'other' subheadings.
If in chemical preparation or mixture
Mixtures containing DMT for specific industrial applications classify in Chapter 38 as preparations.
If considered aromatic ether rather than ester
Misinterpretation of chemical structure could lead to classification among aromatic alcohols/ethers.
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
• Obtain import license confirming quota eligibility under note 3 before vessel loading
• Label shipments clearly as 'DMT for polyester production' with CAS 120-61-6 to prevent reclassification
Related Products under HTS 2917.39.30.00
1,4-Naphthalenedicarboxylic Acid
Aromatic polycarboxylic acid derived from naphthalene, used in high-performance polyester resins and liquid crystal polymers. Included in HTS 2917.39.30.00 under additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for specific aromatic diacids subject to import quotas.
Terephthalic Acid (PTA)
Terephthalic acid is an aromatic polycarboxylic acid used primarily as a raw material in producing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for bottles and fibers. It falls under HTS 2917.39.30.00 as a product described in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI, specifically covering certain aromatic polycarboxylic acids subject to quantitative limitations.
Isophthalic Acid (IPA)
Isophthalic acid, a meta-isomer of benzene dicarboxylic acid, is an aromatic polycarboxylic acid used in resin, coating, and copolyester production. It qualifies for HTS 2917.39.30.00 as specified in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for import quota management.
Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) Flakes
High-purity terephthalic acid in flake form (>99.99% purity) for direct polymerization into PET without ester interchange. Falls under HTS 2917.39.30.00 per additional U.S. note 3 to section VI due to its status as a quota-controlled aromatic polycarboxylic acid.
Phthalic Anhydride (Technical Grade)
Cyclic anhydride of ortho-phthalic acid, an aromatic polycarboxylic acid derivative used in plasticizer and resin manufacturing. Subject to HTS 2917.39.30.00 classification per additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for quota management.
Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA)
Trimellitic anhydride is a tri-carboxylic aromatic acid anhydride used in wire enamel coatings and high-temperature plastics. Falls under HTS 2917.39.30.00 as described in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for quota-controlled aromatic polycarboxylic derivatives.