HS HEADING 3208

Paints, varnishes; (enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium

HEADING

3208

CHAPTER

32 — Tanning or dyeing extracts; pigments, paints, varnishes, putty

In plain English

This category includes paints and varnishes, such as enamels and lacquers, that use synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers mixed into a liquid that is not water. The items are sorted into three groups based on the specific type of polymer used. One group covers products based on polyesters, while another includes those made with acrylic or vinyl polymers. Any other polymers not listed in the previous groups fall into the final category.

PARAPHRASE OF THE OFFICIAL HS 2022 TEXTS BELOW — NOT LEGAL ADVICE

6-digit subheadings (3)

Official HS 2022 subheading texts. National tariff schedules subdivide these further (8-10 digit lines) and set the actual duty rates.

3208.10

Paints and varnishes; based on polyesters, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium

3208.20

Paints and varnishes; based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium

3208.90

Paints and varnishes; based on polymers n.e.c. in heading no. 3208, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium

Chapter 32 classification notes

Chapter 32 contains many DG class 3 flammable liquids (alcohol-based paints) and class 6 toxic substances (heavy-metal pigments). Personal-quantity art supplies clear as routine; commercial imports need MSDS.

Frequent misclassification in this chapter

Cosmetic colourants under Chapter 33 not 32; food colourings under Chapter 32 with E-number additive labelling.

Classification certainty

The 6-digit level shown here is the internationally harmonised layer. Duty rates attach to national 8-10 digit tariff lines, which differ by country — use the duty calculator for lane estimates. For binding certainty, request a ruling from the destination customs authority.

Binding tariff ruling database

Other headings in Chapter 32

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