2939.20.00 - Alkaloids of cinchona and their derivatives; salts thereof

This category, HTS Code 2939.20.00, encompasses alkaloids derived from cinchona bark, as well as their salts and other derivatives. Cinchona alkaloids are a group of naturally occurring compounds, most notably quinine, quinidine, cinchonine, and cinchonidine, known for their medicinal properties, particularly their antimalarial and antiarrhythmic uses. This classification includes both the naturally extracted alkaloids and those produced through synthesis, provided they meet the chemical definition and origin from cinchona.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, it is important to note that HTS Code 2939.20.00 specifically pertains to alkaloids of cinchona. Other sibling categories, such as those for opium alkaloids, caffeine, ephedra alkaloids, and rye ergot alkaloids, cover distinct chemical families and origins, each with their own unique properties and common applications. The focus here is solely on the chemical compounds and their salts originating from the cinchona tree.

Within this classification, two subcategories are provided to further refine the classification: 2939.20.00.10 for Quinine and its salts, recognizing the prominence and distinct uses of quinine, and 2939.20.00.50 for "Other" cinchona alkaloids and their derivatives, which captures all remaining cinchona-derived compounds not specifically enumerated under quinine. This subdivision allows for precise identification of specific cinchona alkaloids and a general category for less common derivatives.