HTS Code 3021 – Detailed Guide to Synthetic Organic Coloring Matter Classification

HTS US: 3021.XX.XXXX

Description

Heading 3021 pertains to synthetic organic coloring matter, which includes a broad range of dyes and pigments primarily used to impart color to materials in industries such as textiles, plastics, paper, and printing inks. These coloring agents are manufactured through chemical synthesis and are characterized by their organic molecular structure.

The products covered under this heading can be presented in various forms:

Dry powders: Finely ground pigments or dyes in solid form.
Solutions or dispersions: Coloring matter dissolved or suspended in liquid carriers.
Pastilles, flakes, or granules: Solid forms designed for ease of handling or dissolution.

These synthetic organic coloring matters may be used as intermediates or finished products depending on the industry application.

Code Hierarchy

Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
Chapter 30: Pharmaceutical Products and other chemical products
Heading 3021: Synthetic organic colouring matter.
US HTS Code (10-digit): 3021.XX.XXXX – Further digits specify the chemical class, form, and purity.

Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings

No specific sub-codes were found in the database for 3021, but the heading is generally subdivided in international practice into types of synthetic organic coloring matter based on their chemical nature and physical form. Typical subcategories include:

HS/HTS Code	Description	Examples & Notes
3021.10	Acid dyes and preparations based thereon	Water-soluble dyes mainly used for dyeing wool, silk, and nylon.
`3021.10.0000`	Acid dyes, dry form or in solution
3021.20	Basic dyes and preparations based thereon	Water-soluble dyes used for acrylic fibers, paper, and leather.
`3021.20.0000`	Basic dyes, in solid or liquid forms
3021.30	Direct dyes and preparations based thereon	Dyes that can be applied directly to fiber without mordants, used for cotton and other cellulose fibers.
`3021.30.0000`	Direct dyes in any physical form
3021.40	Vat dyes and preparations based thereon	Insoluble dyes made soluble for dyeing by reduction, commonly for cotton.
`3021.40.0000`	Vat dyes, powder or liquid
3021.50	Reactive dyes and preparations based thereon	Dyes that form covalent bonds with fibers, providing wash-fastness.
`3021.50.0000`	Reactive dyes in dry or liquid state
3021.90	Other synthetic organic colouring matter	Includes disperse dyes, pigments, and other types not specified above.
`3021.90.0000`	Miscellaneous synthetic organic colouring matter

What is NOT Classified Here?

To prevent misclassification, note these exclusions:

Inorganic pigments and coloring matter (e.g., titanium dioxide, iron oxides) are classified under Heading 2811.
Natural organic coloring matter derived directly from plants or animals is classified under Heading 3203.
Food colorings intended specifically for human consumption fall under Heading 3204.
Preparations for photographic uses containing coloring matter are classified under Heading 3704.
Paints, varnishes, and lacquers containing pigments or dyes are classified under Heading 3208.

Notes

Regulatory Compliance: Importers must comply with environmental and safety standards related to chemical substances including REACH in the EU and TSCA in the US.
Tariff Treatment: Duty rates depend on the exact subheading and form of the coloring matter. Some dyes may be subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties.
Import Documentation: Detailed chemical composition and safety data sheets may be required to accompany shipments.

Declaration Example

Product: A shipment of reactive dyes in powder form used for textile dyeing.US HTS Code: 3021.50.0000 (Reactive dyes and preparations based thereon)

Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)

General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Varies by dye type and origin)

Additional Requirements: Compliance with chemical safety regulations and import permits.