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29335900
ORGANIC CHEMICALSHeterocyclic compounds with nitrogen hetero-atom(s) only

Other

Product scope and tariff classification

CN code 293359 covers other compounds containing an unfused pyrimidine ring not elsewhere specified in Chapter 29. Key substances classified here include pyrimidine (1,3-diazine) itself and its chemically defined derivatives - thymine (5-methyluracil, CAS 65-71-4), cytosine (4-aminopyrimidin-2(1H)-one, CAS 71-30-7), uracil, orotic acid and related pure heterocyclic bases. Thymine and cytosine are nucleobases that form integral components of DNA and RNA respectively, giving substances in this subheading significant importance in biotechnology, pharmaceutical synthesis and scientific research. In accordance with Note 1 to Chapter 29 of the Combined Nomenclature, classification here requires a chemically defined compound in pure form or in aqueous solution. Mixtures of pyrimidine derivatives formulated for specific end uses may be classified outside Chapter 29 depending on their composition and presentation. Classification is carried out using the General Interpretative Rules of the CN, in particular GIR 1 and GIR 6 for subheadings.

REACH registration, CLP labelling and chemical safety obligations

Substances classified under CN 293359 and imported into the European Union are subject to the full requirements of REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. The importer or an Only Representative (OR) established in the EU must ensure each substance is registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) at the appropriate tonnage band before it is placed on the EU market. Substances imported in quantities exceeding one tonne per year require registration. CLP labelling must reflect current toxicological and ecotoxicological data; thymine and cytosine are not generally classified as substances of very high concern, but other pyrimidine derivatives require individual hazard assessment. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) compliant with Regulation (EU) 2020/878 must be provided to recipients in the official language of the destination member state. Substances intended for pharmaceutical manufacturing or use in medicinal products are additionally subject to GMP requirements and pharmacopoeial standards. Certain antiviral or cytostatic pyrimidine derivatives may be subject to national controlled substance legislation in the member state of destination.

Trade, export controls and customs practice

When importing substances under CN 293359, the customs declaration should specify the IUPAC name, CAS number, degree of chemical purity and the REACH registration number or confirmation of Only Representative appointment. For substances intended for use as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), GMP certificates and EU Pharmacopoeia or ICH Q7 compliance documentation may be required by customs or the competent authority. Export of pyrimidine derivatives to third countries should be verified against Regulation (EU) 2021/821 on dual-use export controls, particularly for substances that could serve as precursors in the synthesis of medicinal products or biological materials. Importers should consult the European Commission TARIC database for current MFN duty rates and available tariff preferences under FTA agreements or the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP). EUR.1 movement certificates or invoice declarations enable preferential rates for qualifying countries of origin. Anti-dumping or countervailing measures for this subheading should be verified in TARIC prior to each transaction.

Chemical safety and SDS requirements

Organic substances under CN code 2933 59 (Compounds with pyrimidine ring) 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

How are thymine and cytosine distinguished at customs when both fall under CN 293359?
Both thymine (CAS 65-71-4) and cytosine (CAS 71-30-7) are classified under CN 293359 when imported in chemically pure form as required by Note 1 to Chapter 29. At customs clearance the declaration must state the IUPAC name and CAS number of the specific substance, its degree of purity supported by a certificate of analysis (HPLC or NMR), and the REACH registration number. Mixtures of thymine and cytosine are classified under GIR 3 by the component that gives the mixture its essential character.
What REACH obligations apply to importing pyrimidine and its derivatives into the EU?
Pyrimidine and its derivatives imported into the EU in quantities exceeding one tonne per year require registration with ECHA under REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. The importer must hold a valid registration number or appoint an Only Representative established in the EU. A current Safety Data Sheet compliant with Regulation (EU) 2020/878 must be provided in the language of the destination member state. Substances intended as APIs in medicinal products are additionally subject to GMP requirements and ICH Q7 guidance.
Are pyrimidine derivatives under CN 293359 subject to dual-use export controls?
Pyrimidine derivatives such as thymine, cytosine and uracil are not generally listed in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2021/821 on dual-use export controls. However, exporters are required to conduct an end-use and end-user check for each transaction, particularly where the buyer operates in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology or defence sector. Where there is uncertainty about the correct classification, Binding Tariff Information (BTI) decision from the competent customs authority is recommended before concluding the transaction.
How to classify Compounds with pyrimidine ring in customs tariff 2933 59?
Classification of Compounds with pyrimidine ring under CN code 2933 59 is based on chemical structure and functional groups. If in doubt, you can apply for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the national customs authority.