Sourcing azo initiators and azo compounds from China
Diazo, azo and azoxy compounds from China, including azo polymerisation initiators such as AIBN and the named azo initiators listed in the tariff, pay 0% UK duty on all four lines of heading 2927, with no anti-dumping duty. Many azo initiators are self-reactive substances that decompose with heat, so temperature-controlled transport, GB CLP labels and UK REACH matter.
0% duty
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 29 September 2026, heading 2927 covers diazo, azo or azoxy compounds, with named lines for specific azo initiators and an intermediate. All four lines carried 0% on goods from China, with no anti-dumping measure.
Azo dyes and pigments are colouring matter of chapter 32, not heading 2927; peroxide initiators are covered in our catalysts and initiators guide. Confirm the commodity code from the CAS number.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2,2'-azobis(4-methoxy-2,4-dimethylvaleronitrile) | 2927 00 00 25 | 0% | None |
| 2,2'-dimethyl-2,2'-azodipropionamidine dihydrochloride | 2927 00 00 45 | 0% | None |
| 4'-aminoazobenzene-4-sulphonic acid | 2927 00 00 55 | 0% | None |
| Other diazo, azo or azoxy compounds | 2927 00 00 90 | 0% | None |
Self-reactive substances
Many azo initiators decompose when warmed and are classified as self-reactive substances for transport and under the retained CLP Regulation. They need GB labels and a GB-format safety data sheet, approved packaging, and often a control temperature in transit and storage, which the supplier's safety data sheet sets out.
Under UK REACH, a GB importer of one tonne or more a year of a substance generally needs a registration or must rely on one further up the chain.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: 1 tonne of AIBN polymerisation initiator in temperature-controlled packs under 2927 00 00 90, invoiced at £9,000 free on board, with £1,500 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £10,500. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £10,500, so it is £2,100. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Documents: check the safety data sheet, transport classification and certificate of analysis.
Temperature: check the shipping method keeps the product below its control temperature, with a logger.
Packing: check approved packs and hazard labels. See our quality inspection guide.
What goes wrong
Azo initiator orders fail on temperature, packing and documents. Product degrades in a hot container, packs are not approved for self-reactive substances, and GB labels or REACH are not settled.
Cambridge China Bridge sources speciality chemicals for UK polymer makers with transport and documents agreed before shipment. See testing and certification.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on AIBN from China?
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 29 September 2026, azo compounds under heading 2927 carried 0% from China.
Are azo initiators dangerous goods?
Many are self-reactive substances and need approved packaging, GB CLP labels and often temperature control.
Are azo dyes in heading 2927?
No. Azo dyes and pigments are colouring matter of chapter 32.
Do I need UK REACH registration?
A GB importer of one tonne or more a year generally needs a registration or must rely on one further up the chain.