Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.
What HTS 3204.12 Covers
This subheading covers synthetic organic acid dyes, whether or not premetallized, and mordant dyes, plus preparations based on them. Acid dyes are water-soluble colorants applied in acidic dye baths and are widely used to color wool, silk, nylon, leather, and paper. It sits under heading 3204, which covers synthetic organic coloring matter.
Notes for Importers
Typical imports are dye powders, granules, and liquid concentrates sold to textile mills, leather tanneries, and ink makers. A common pitfall is confusing acid dyes with the neighboring subheadings in 3204 such as disperse dyes (3204.11), basic dyes (3204.13), or reactive dyes (3204.16); the correct classification depends on the dye chemistry and application class, usually shown by the Colour Index designation. Finished inks and paints made from dyes classify elsewhere in chapters 32.
Product Category
Chemical Products
This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| HTS Code | 3204.12 |
| Description | Acid dyes, whether or not premetallized, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon: |
| Chapter | 32 - Chemical Products |
| General Duty Rate | |
| Rate Type | Other |
| Special Rates |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
- 3204.11.10.00 — Disperse blue 19, 26, 26:1, 35, 55, 56, 58, 72, 73, 79, 83, 84, 93, 95, 122, 125, 126, 128, 148, 154, 165, 180, 183, 185, 200, 284, 285, 288, 289, 295, 296; Disperse brown 19; Disperse green 9; Disperse orange 7, 13, 20, 31, 32, 42, 47, 48, 54, 56, 60, 63, 70, 80, 96, 127, 137, 139; Disperse red 44, 46, 72, 73, 90, 93, 107, 118, 121, 122, 131, 133, 134,151, 169, 184, 185, 202, 203, 224, 277, 278, 279, 282, 288, 303, 310; Disperse violet 23, 33, 35, 48, 57, 63; Disperse yellow 13, 44, 58, 63, 65, 82, 85, 91, 107, 119, 122, 124, 126, 139, 182, 183, 184, 202, 204; Dyes containing, by weight-- 12.7 percent Disperse Yellow 1, 32.3 percent Disperse Orange 1, 19.8 percent Disperse Blue 35, and 35.2 percent Disperse Blue 3; Dyes containing, by weight-- 39.0 percent Disperse Yellow 39, 28.0 percent Disperse Orange 25, and 33.0 percent Disperse Violet 27; Dyes containing, by weight-- 89.4 percent Disperse Violet 27, and 10.6 percent Disperse Green 9; Dyes containing, by weight-- 67.7 percent Disperse Blue 35, 14.2 percent Disperse Yellow 1, and 18.1 percent Disperse Orange 1; Dyes containing, by weight-- 74.3 percent Disperse Blue 285, 18.0 percent Disperse Brown 19, and 7.7 percent Disperse Yellow 126
- 3204.11.15.00 — Disperse blue 30
- 3204.11.18.00 — N-[2-[(2,6-Dicyano-4-methylphenylazo]-5- (diethylamino)-phenyl] methanesulfonamide; and N-[2-[2,6-Dicyano-4-methylphenylazo]-5- (di-1-propylamino) phenyl]methanesulfonamide
- 3204.11.35.00 — Products described in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI
- 3204.11.50.00 — Other
- 3204.12.05.00 — Acid black 210 powder and presscake
- 3204.12.13.00 — Acid violet 19
- 3204.12.17.00 — Acid black 31, 50, 94, 129; Acid blue 54, 127, 129, 143; Acid brown 44, 46, 48, 58, 188, 189; Acid green 40; Acid red 130, 145, 174, 211; Acid violet 31, 41, 48; Acid yellow 2, 75; Mordant black 8; Mordant green 47; andMordant red 17, 27
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are classified under 3204.12?
Synthetic organic acid dyes and mordant dyes, including premetallized types, and dye preparations based on them. They are used to color wool, silk, nylon, leather, and paper.
How do I tell acid dyes apart from other dye types?
Check the Colour Index (C.I.) name on the technical data sheet. A designation like C.I. Acid Red or C.I. Mordant Black confirms this subheading, while C.I. Disperse, Basic, or Reactive names point to other subheadings of 3204.
Does this code cover food coloring?
No. Colorants prepared for food or drink use are generally classified under their own provisions, and finished color preparations like inks and paints fall under other headings of chapter 32.
What is the HTS code 3204.12 used for?
HTS code 3204.12 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Acid dyes, whether or not premetallized, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon:. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 3204.12?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 3204.12?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 3204.12?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 3204.12 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.