Prepared culture media for development or maintenance of micro-organisms (including viruses and the like) or of plant, human or animal cells
2 declarable lines
Heading 3821 covers prepared culture media for the development or maintenance of micro-organisms, viruses, and plant, human, or animal cells. The two declarable lines split viral transport media from all other prepared culture media. Both lines carry a 5% general (MFN) duty rate.
Products in this heading
- Viral transport media in vials or tubes
- Cell culture media for human or animal cells
- Microbiological growth media for bacteria
- Prepared agar plates for laboratory use
- Tissue culture media for plant cells
- Virus specimen transport kits containing culture medium
- Prepared media for maintaining virus cultures
- Liquid culture media for cell maintenance
How to choose the right subheading
- Decide whether the product is a prepared culture medium rather than a diagnostic reagent or a general chemical preparation.
- Check the intended use: viral transport media goes to 3821.00.00.10; all other prepared culture media goes to 3821.00.00.90.
- Confirm the product is prepared for development or maintenance of micro-organisms, viruses, or plant, human, or animal cells.
- If the product is a diagnostic or laboratory reagent in a kit or on a backing, compare heading 3822 before using heading 3821.
- If the product is a disinfectant or similar retail product, compare heading 3808 before using heading 3821.
Often confused with
- Heading 3822Prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents in kits or on a backing
Heading 3822 covers diagnostic and laboratory reagents, including kits, rather than culture media.
- Heading 3808Disinfectants put up for retail sale
Disinfectants and similar products are classified in heading 3808.
- Heading 3822Certified reference materials
Certified reference materials are named in heading 3822.
- Heading 3824General chemical preparations not elsewhere specified or included
General chemical preparations fall in heading 3824 when no more specific heading applies.
- Heading 3002Antisera and other blood fractions
Blood products and antisera are classified in heading 3002, not as culture media.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HTS code for viral transport media?
Viral transport media is classified under 3821.00.00.10 and carries a 5% general (MFN) rate.
What is the duty on other prepared culture media?
Other prepared culture media is classified under 3821.00.00.90 and carries a 5% general (MFN) rate.
How do I classify a prepared cell culture medium?
If it is a prepared medium for maintaining plant, human, or animal cells, classify it under 3821.00.00.90 at a 5% general (MFN) rate. If it is viral transport media, use 3821.00.00.10, also at a 5% general (MFN) rate.
Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.