Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI)
MDI is a chemically defined aromatic diisocyanate used primarily in polyurethane production for foams and coatings. It falls under HTS 2929.10.55.00 as an isocyanate specifically listed in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI, distinguishing it from other isocyanates.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Rate | Ch.99 Surcharges | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 6.5% | +37.5% | 44% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 6.5% | +10.0% | 16.5% |
| 🇨🇦Canada | 6.5% | +10.0% | 16.5% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | +10.0% | 10% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | +12.5% | 12.5% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If not specifically listed in U.S. note 3
General 'other' isocyanates fall here if excluded from note 3 products.
If imported as polyurethane prepolymer
Prepolymerized MDI in polymer form shifts to Chapter 39 plastics heading.
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
• Verify listing in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for correct classification; ensure SDS and proper UN packaging for hazardous transport
• Common pitfall: misclassifying as general isocyanate under 2929.10.50
Related Products under HTS 2929.10.55.00
Polymeric Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (PMDI)
PMDI is a mixture of MDI oligomers, a chemically defined isocyanate for rigid polyurethane foams in insulation. Classified under HTS 2929.10.55.00 per additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for specific isocyanates.
Carbodiimide Stabilized MDI
This MDI variant includes carbodiimide stabilizer for extended shelf life, remaining a chemically defined isocyanate. It qualifies for HTS 2929.10.55.00 under U.S. note 3 as a listed product with necessary preservative.
Prepolymeric MDI Isocyanate
Prepolymeric MDI is a low-viscosity isocyanate prepolymer for flexible foam production, chemically defined under chapter scope. HTS 2929.10.55.00 applies due to its inclusion in additional U.S. note 3.
Modified Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate (Modified MDI)
Modified MDI features altered functionality for coatings and adhesives, still a core isocyanate per chapter notes. It is classified in HTS 2929.10.55.00 as a product described in U.S. note 3 to section VI.
Crude MDI
Crude MDI contains oligomeric impurities but remains a chemically defined diisocyanate for industrial use. Falls under HTS 2929.10.55.00 per additional U.S. note 3, allowing impurities as per chapter note 1(a).
Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) 80/20
TDI 80/20 is an 80% 2,4-TDI and 20% 2,6-TDI isomer mix, a chemically defined isocyanate for flexible foams. HTS 2929.10.55.00 covers it as listed in U.S. note 3 to section VI.