HTS US: 2946.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading includes antibiotics and other medicaments containing antibiotics, primarily used for human or veterinary medicine. These products are typically presented in various forms such as powders, solutions, or granules intended for therapeutic use.
The classification covers products that contain active antibiotic substances either in pure form or combined with other ingredients to create medicinal preparations.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 29: Organic Chemicals
- Heading 2946: Antibiotics
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2946.XX.XXXX– Specific codes identify exact antibiotic substances and preparations.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 2946 is subdivided into more specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes that identify the type of antibiotic or antibiotic-containing product.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2946.10 | Penicillins and their derivatives, including salts | Includes penicillin G, penicillin V, and related compounds used as antibiotics. |
2946.10.1000 |
Penicillin G and salts | |
2946.10.9000 |
Other penicillins and derivatives | |
| 2946.20 | Streptomycins and their derivatives, including salts | Antibiotics derived from Streptomyces species used for various infections. |
2946.20.1000 |
Streptomycin sulfate and salts | |
2946.20.9000 |
Other streptomycins and derivatives | |
| 2946.30 | Other antibiotics, including chloramphenicol and tetracyclines | Broad category covering various antibiotic substances such as chloramphenicol, tetracyclines, etc. |
2946.30.1000 |
Chloramphenicol and salts | |
2946.30.2000 |
Tetracycline and salts | |
2946.30.9000 |
Other antibiotics not specified elsewhere | |
| 2946.90 | Other antibiotics, mixtures, and medicaments containing antibiotics | Includes antibiotic combinations and preparations not classified under previous subheadings. |
2946.90.1000 |
Antibiotic mixtures for pharmaceutical use | |
2946.90.9000 |
Other antibiotic-containing medicaments |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure proper classification, the following exclusions apply:
- Non-antibiotic pharmaceutical products are classified under other headings.
- Antibiotics in processed pharmaceutical forms such as tablets or capsules may be classified under Heading 3004.
- Biological products like vaccines and sera are classified under Heading 3002.
- Antibiotics embedded in veterinary feed premixes may fall under different headings depending on formulation.
Notes
- Regulatory Compliance: Import and export of antibiotics are heavily regulated by agencies such as the FDA and CDC to prevent misuse and ensure safety.
- Duty Rates: Duty varies by the specific antibiotic and country of origin; some antibiotics may be duty-free under trade agreements.
- Documentation: Importers must provide certificates of analysis and authorization for controlled substances.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of penicillin G potassium salt in powder form from Germany.US HTS Code:
2946.10.1000(Penicillin G and salts)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Often duty-free or minimal duty)
Additional Requirements: FDA import approval and relevant safety certifications.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 3004: Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses (including antibiotics in finished pharmaceutical forms).
- HTS 3002: Human blood; animal blood prepared for therapeutic uses; antisera; vaccines; toxins and cultures.
- HTS 3824: Chemical preparations for photographic uses; disinfectants; and other chemical products.
- HTS 2941: Antibiotics other than those specifically listed under 2946.











