Cumene, chemically known as isopropylbenzene, is the primary industrial route to phenol and acetone through the cumene hydroperoxide process, making it an essential intermediate for resins, pharmaceuticals, and solvents. Classified under HTS 2902700000, it is imported in bulk liquid form and requires EPA TSCA certification at entry. Japan is the leading recorded supplier of cumene to the US market, reflecting the country's well-developed aromatic chemicals industry. Importers should be aware that cumene's dual-use nature — as both a chemical intermediate and a component in some fuel blends — can occasionally raise classification questions.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Cumene used as a chemical intermediate or sold as a defined chemical compound is properly classified under HTS 2902700000. Classification under a petroleum or fuel heading would generally apply only to mixtures where cumene is not the identifiable, commercially pure compound. The intended use does not by itself change the classification; the product's chemical identity and purity are the determining factors.
Japan has a mature petrochemical sector with integrated aromatics production capacity, and its cumene output often meets the high-purity specifications required by US chemical manufacturers. Proximity to refinery-grade benzene and propylene feedstocks, combined with established trade relationships, supports Japan's leading position in this narrow commodity category.
Trade Directory
List your company under HS 290270 — Cumene (Isopropylbenzene), so the companies trading it can find you. Be the first supplier listed.
Subheading 12 of 12 in heading 2902
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2902700000 | Cumene | — | -- | -- |
ImportsExports
Imports
—YoY · free account
Exports
—YoY · free account
Low of 1 reported month · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. exported $106K of Cumene (Isopropylbenzene).
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 1 of 12 months reported, exports 5 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.