29225000
ORGANIC CHEMICALS›Oxygen-function amino-compounds
Amino-alcohol-phenols, amino-acid-phenols and other amino-compounds with oxygen function
Classification scope and key substances
CN code 292250 covers amino-alcohol-phenols, amino-acid-phenols, amino-naphthol-phenols, and other organic amino compounds that bear both an amino group and an additional oxygen function, not falling within more specific subheadings. The most commercially significant substances in this group include serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, CAS 50-67-9) and its precursor 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP, CAS 4350-09-8), noradrenaline (norepinephrine, CAS 51-41-2), adrenaline (epinephrine, CAS 51-43-4), and dopamine (CAS 51-61-6). These compounds are critical catecholamine and indolamine neurotransmitters of the central and peripheral nervous systems, regulating mood, cardiovascular responses, motor control, and stress reactions. Serotonin is used in scientific research and as a pharmaceutical synthesis substrate for indole-based drug development. Adrenaline and noradrenaline are critical active substances in life-saving medicinal preparations such as anaphylaxis auto-injectors and are subject to strict pharmaceutical controls in all EU member states. Classification under CN 292250 requires compliance with Note 1 to Chapter 29 – the substance must be a chemically defined, isolated compound in pure form or aqueous solution. Finished pharmaceutical preparations containing these substances as active ingredients are classified in Chapter 30, not Chapter 29.
REACH, CLP requirements and chemical safety
Amino compounds under CN 292250 imported into the EU are subject to REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. Substances with pharmacological activity – in particular adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine – may be subject to restrictions on use outside the pharmaceutical sector. Registration with ECHA or appointment of an Only Representative (OR) is required for substances imported in quantities of at least 1 tonne per year. The CLP hazard profile varies across the group: serotonin is relatively stable and not highly toxic under laboratory conditions, whereas adrenaline and noradrenaline have potent pharmacological effects on the cardiovascular system and require detailed risk assessments. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) prepared in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2020/878 must accompany each industrial consignment. Transport of these substances by road and air requires classification under ADR and IATA regulations, given their potential classification as toxic or pharmacologically active materials. Import of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is additionally regulated by national medicines authorities and may require manufacturing or import authorisations.
Trade and customs clearance – practical guidance
Customs declarations for goods under CN 292250 must include the full IUPAC name, CAS number, degree of purity including enantiomeric purity where applicable, description of form (e.g. free base, hydrochloride salt), and intended end use. For substances classified as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), the declaration must indicate whether the substance is destined for medicinal product manufacture, scientific research, or other industrial use. Import of APIs into the EU for medicinal manufacturing purposes generally requires a written confirmation from the competent authority of the exporting country that the applicable GMP standards are equivalent to EU requirements, as set out in Article 111b of Directive 2001/83/EC. Export of substances such as adrenaline or dopamine may require export licences in countries with strict precursor controls. Serotonin and 5-HTP used in dietary supplements are subject to novel food assessment under Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. Preferential tariff rates may be available under applicable FTA agreements – TARIC verification and correct preparation of preferential origin documents are recommended before purchase order finalisation.
Chemical safety and SDS requirements
Organic substances under CN code 2922 50 (Amino compounds with oxygen function) require detailed chemical documentation for customs clearance. The Safety Data Sheet must comply with REACH Annex II. Substances classified as hazardous under CLP require GHS pictogram labelling. Transport follows ADR (road) or IMDG (maritime) regulations. Some organic substances may be subject to export controls as dual-use goods. Importers should verify whether the substance requires REACH authorisation (Annex XIV) or is subject to restrictions (Annex XVII).
Frequently asked questions
Are serotonin and 5-HTP classified under CN 292250?
Yes. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, CAS 50-67-9), as an amino compound bearing both an amino group and a phenolic hydroxyl group, meets the definition of subheading 292250. Similarly, 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan, CAS 4350-09-8), as an amino acid bearing a phenolic hydroxyl substituent, may be classified in this subheading. Finished pharmaceutical preparations containing serotonin as an active ingredient are classified in Chapter 30, not Chapter 29. A Binding Tariff Information (BTI) ruling is recommended for substances with ambiguous tariff classification.
Does importing adrenaline (epinephrine) require special authorisations?
Yes. Adrenaline (epinephrine, CAS 51-43-4) is an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), and its import into the EU for medicinal product manufacture is subject to the requirements of Directive 2001/83/EC and Regulation (EU) No 536/2014. API importers must hold an authorisation issued by the competent national regulatory authority, or obtain a written GMP-equivalence confirmation from the competent authority of the exporting country. Imports for non-commercial scientific research purposes are subject to separate provisions – verification with the relevant national authority is required before any import is arranged.
What REACH requirements apply to amino compounds with a phenolic hydroxyl group?
Amino compounds under CN 292250 imported in quantities of at least 1 tonne per year require REACH registration with ECHA or appointment of an Only Representative (OR). Substances with endocrine-disrupting properties or high pharmacological activity may be subject to Substance Evaluation under the Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP). Importers must verify whether a substance appears on the SVHC Candidate List or in REACH Annex XIV (authorisation) or Annex XVII (restriction) before commencing import activities. The SDS must accurately describe hazards, protective measures, and safe storage conditions, reflecting the biological activity of the substance.
How to classify Amino compounds with oxygen function in customs tariff 2922 50?
Classification of Amino compounds with oxygen function under CN code 2922 50 is based on chemical structure and functional groups. If in doubt, you can apply for a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the national customs authority.
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