29034500
ORGANIC CHEMICALS›Halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons
1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134)
Subcodes (1)
Classification and F-gas regulatory framework
CN code 290345 covers tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a, CAS 811-97-2) and related fluorinated hydrocarbons used primarily as refrigerants. These substances are classified as fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) regulated under Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases. HFC-134a has a global warming potential (GWP) of 1430, making it subject to the EU phase-down schedule for hydrofluorocarbons. As required by Note 1 to Chapter 29, classification under CN 290345 requires the chemically pure, defined substance. Refrigerant blends containing HFC-134a mixed with other substances, such as R-404A or R-410A, are classified under different CN codes as preparations and are subject to their own regulatory provisions.
F-gas quotas, import obligations and registry requirements
Import of HFC-134a and other hydrofluorocarbons into the EU is restricted by a quota system established under Regulation (EU) 2024/573. Before importing, a company must obtain a quota allocation from the F-gas Registry administered by the European Commission through the ECHA portal. Import without a valid quota allocation is prohibited and subject to serious administrative sanctions. Each consignment must be reported to the F-gas Registry. Regulation (EC) No 1005/2009 on ozone-depleting substances may be relevant for analogous halogenated compounds – operators should verify the substance is not listed as an ODS. Independently, all substances are subject to REACH registration and CLP labelling requirements.
Customs clearance, transport and practical compliance
The customs declaration for HFC-134a under CN 290345 must include the F-gas quota reference number, the quantity expressed in tonnes of CO2 equivalent (GWP multiplied by mass in metric tonnes), and the REACH registration number. Customs authorities verify the quota allocation in the F-gas Registry prior to releasing the goods. Export of HFC-134a from the EU may require notification or authorisation under F-gas provisions. Transport of HFC-134a in pressurised cylinders is subject to ADR Class 2 regulations. Importers must maintain a current SDS in the language of the country of destination and ensure storage conditions meet leak-tightness requirements and fire safety standards applicable to pressurised fluorinated gases.
Chemical safety and SDS requirements
Organic substances under CN code 2903 45 (HFC-134a and fluorinated hydrocarbons) 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
Is it possible to import HFC-134a into the EU without an F-gas quota?
No. Regulation (EU) 2024/573 unconditionally requires a valid import quota allocation from the European Commission before any HFC-134a can be imported into the EU. The importing company must be registered in the F-gas Registry and hold an active allocation for the relevant year. Importing without a quota constitutes a serious breach of EU law and may result in confiscation and significant financial penalties.
How is the CO2 equivalent calculated for HFC-134a import quota purposes?
The CO2 equivalent is calculated by multiplying the mass of the substance in metric tonnes by its GWP value. For HFC-134a the GWP is 1430, meaning one metric tonne of the substance corresponds to 1430 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. This figure is used to account against the allocated quota and must be declared in the import documentation submitted to the F-gas Registry.
Does HFC-134a require REACH registration in addition to F-gas compliance?
Yes. REACH applies independently of F-gas legislation. An importer bringing HFC-134a into the EU must ensure a valid REACH registration exists for the substance at ECHA, or appoint an Only Representative established in the EU. CLP-compliant labelling and a Safety Data Sheet in the official language of the destination member state are also mandatory and must be provided to all downstream users in the supply chain.
How to classify HFC-134a and fluorinated hydrocarbons in customs tariff 2903 45?
Classification of HFC-134a and fluorinated hydrocarbons under CN code 2903 45 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.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134)" and see the full import cost.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) and 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134)" with all costs included.
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