HTS Code: 2948 — Antibiotics and Other Antibacterial Products

HTS Code 2948 encompasses a range of antibiotics and other antibacterial products that are used primarily for pharmaceutical purposes. These substances include natural and synthetic antibiotics, as well as derivatives and chemically modified products designed to combat bacterial infections.

This heading includes:

• Antibiotics: Substances produced by microorganisms or synthetically prepared that inhibit or kill bacteria.
• Other antibacterial products: Compounds with bactericidal or bacteriostatic properties, including derivatives and semisynthetic forms.
• Forms: These products may come in various forms, including powders, liquids, or solid preparations intended for further processing or direct pharmaceutical use.

The products classified under this heading are essential for medical treatments and are often subject to strict regulations and controls.

Code Hierarchy

• Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
• Chapter 29: Organic Chemicals
• Heading 2948: Antibiotics and other products with antibacterial properties.
• US HTS Code (10-digit): 2948.XX.XXXX – The full 10-digit code specifies the exact antibiotic or antibacterial substance.

Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings

While specific sub-codes under 2948 are numerous and detailed, they generally break down based on the chemical nature and intended use of the antibiotic compounds.

What is NOT Classified Here?

To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:

• Antiviral, antifungal or antiparasitic drugs are classified under other headings (e.g., 3004 for medicaments).
• Non-pharmaceutical chemical disinfectants are generally classified under other headings in Chapter 38.
• Medicaments in dosage form are classified under Chapter 30, not under 2948.
• Natural raw materials that have not been purified or prepared as antibiotics are excluded.

Notes

• Regulatory Controls: Antibiotics and antibacterial substances imported into the US are subject to regulations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other agencies ensuring safety and efficacy.
• Duty Rates: Duty rates for these chemical products vary depending on the specific compound and use. Many antibiotics benefit from preferential duty rates or exemptions under trade agreements.
• Import Documentation: Importers must provide detailed chemical composition, safety data sheets, and compliance certificates.

Declaration Example

Product: A shipment of penicillin derivatives for pharmaceutical manufacturing.US HTS Code: 2948.10.1000 (Penicillins and their derivatives)

Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)

General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (typically low or duty-free under trade agreements)

Additional Requirements: FDA approval, import permits, and chemical safety documentation.

Related HTS Codes

• HTS 3004: Medicaments consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses.
• HTS 3824: Chemical preparations not elsewhere specified or included, possibly including disinfectants.
• HTS 2933: Heterocyclic compounds with nitrogen function, some used as pharmaceutical intermediates.
• HTS 2902: Cyclic hydrocarbons, some of which may be antibiotic precursors.