Subheading 15 of 17 in heading 2918
Benzilic acid is a specialty aromatic hydroxy acid classified at a single 10-digit line (2918170001) and sourced exclusively from France in recent US import data. It serves as a pharmaceutical and agrochemical intermediate, most notably in the synthesis of certain anticholinergic drug precursors, which subjects it to heightened regulatory scrutiny. Importers should be aware that benzilic acid is a DEA List I chemical precursor under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning importers must hold a valid DEA registration and comply with import permit and recordkeeping requirements before any shipment can enter the US.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Benzilic acid is designated as a DEA List I chemical because it is a precursor to certain controlled substances. Importers must hold a current DEA registration as a chemical importer, obtain an import permit for each shipment, and maintain detailed transaction records. Failure to comply can result in seizure of the shipment and civil or criminal penalties.
France, as an EU member state, applies EU dual-use export control regulations to certain chemical precursors. Benzilic acid's status as a controlled precursor means French exporters may require an export authorization, and US importers should coordinate with their supplier to confirm that all export licensing requirements are satisfied before the shipment departs, to avoid delays at the US port of entry.
Trade Directory
List your company under HS 291817 — Benzilic Acid (2,2-Diphenyl-2-Hydroxyacetic Acid), so the companies trading it can find you. Be the first supplier listed.
HS10 import codes under this HS6 parent, each with its own page. Source: U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
| Code | Description | Imports for consumption | Average duty rate | Dutiable Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2918170001 | Benzilic Acid | — | -- | -- |
ImportsExports
Imports
—YoY · free account
Exports
—YoY · free account
Low of 5 reported months · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. exported $636K of Benzilic Acid (2,2-Diphenyl-2-Hydroxyacetic Acid).
Fewer than 6 of the last 12 months reported trade, or the latest month was under $500K; the trend chart is not shown for thin series.
Through August 2026 · imports 5 of 12 months reported, exports 10 of 12 months reported. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
Imports · August 2026
origin
customs district
destination
entry
rate provision · imports
None recorded for this period.