3904 - Polymers of vinyl chloride or of other halogenated olefins, in primary forms:

This HTS chapter, Section VII, covers plastics and articles made from them. Specifically, HTS code 3904 pertains to polymers of vinyl chloride or other halogenated olefins. This broad category encompasses the foundational materials for a vast array of plastic products, including but not limited to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and its copolymers, as well as polymers derived from vinylidene chloride and fluorinated olefins. The classification focuses on these polymers when they are in their "primary forms," meaning raw, unmanufactured states such as powders, granules, or blocks, before they are further processed into finished goods.

Distinguishing HTS 3904 from its sibling categories at the root level is crucial for accurate import and export declarations. Unlike chapters covering live animals, agricultural products, or minerals, HTS 3904 is strictly focused on specific types of synthetic polymers. While other chapters within Section VII might cover different types of plastics (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene), HTS 3904 is exclusively dedicated to vinyl chloride and other halogenated olefin-based polymers. This specificity ensures that materials like PVC, which have distinct properties and applications, are correctly categorized.

Within HTS 3904, further subdivisions exist to refine classification based on the specific polymer composition. These subcategories allow for the precise identification of materials such as pure poly(vinyl chloride), copolymers of vinyl chloride with other monomers like vinyl acetate, and polymers like vinylidene chloride. The existence of these subcategories, such as those for fluoropolymers or other copolymers, facilitates the accurate classification of goods based on their exact chemical makeup and the resulting physical and chemical properties, which are critical for determining applicable duties and trade regulations.