Ferric Ammonium Alum
Ferric ammonium alum, also known as ammonium iron(III) sulfate dodecahydrate, is a pale violet double sulfate salt used as a coagulant in water treatment and as a mordant in dyeing. Its structure as a hydrated double sulfate of ferric iron and ammonium qualifies it as an alum under tariff item 2833.30.00. This chemically defined compound is covered by chapter 28's provisions for separate chemical elements and compounds.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the product is a simple ferric sulfate without the ammonium component
Ferric sulfate alone is not an alum and falls under other sulfate tariff items.
If the product is activated or otherwise treated for specific adsorption uses
Activated carbons and mineral products for adsorption are classified elsewhere.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• If used in drinking water treatment, ensure compliance with Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines and provide relevant certifications
• Label the product with its iron content and hydrate form for accurate classification
• Keep records of the end-use to avoid misclassification as a preparation
Related Products under Tariff item 2833.30.00
Ammonium Alum Powder
Ammonium alum powder, chemically ammonium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate, is a double sulfate salt classified as an alum under heading 28.33. It is used in flameproofing textiles and as a component in baking powder. Its composition as a hydrated double sulfate of ammonium and aluminum places it squarely within the tariff item for alums.
Chrome Alum Crystals
Chrome alum crystals, or chromium potassium sulfate dodecahydrate, are a violet double sulfate salt used in leather tanning and as an analytical reagent. As a hydrated double sulfate of chromium and potassium, it meets the definition of an alum under tariff item 2833.30.00. The product is chemically defined and falls within chapter 28's scope for separate chemical compounds.
Food-Grade Potassium Alum
Food-grade potassium alum, or potassium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate, is a high-purity double sulfate salt used as a pickling agent and for water clarification in food processing. Its chemically defined double sulfate composition classifies it as an alum under tariff item 2833.30.00. The FCC grade ensures suitability for food applications, but the classification remains within chapter 28 as a separate chemical compound.
Lab Grade Chrome Alum
Lab-grade chrome alum is a high-purity chromium potassium sulfate dodecahydrate intended for laboratory reagents and crystal growth experiments. As a chemically defined double sulfate salt, it is classified as an alum under tariff item 2833.30.00. The product's purity does not change its classification, as chapter 28 covers separate chemical compounds regardless of grade.
Pharmaceutical Grade Ammonium Alum
Pharmaceutical-grade ammonium alum, or ammonium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate, is a USP-grade double sulfate salt used in topical astringents and pharmaceutical formulations. Its chemically defined nature and double sulfate structure classify it as an alum under tariff item 2833.30.00. The pharmaceutical grade does not alter its classification within chapter 28, as the product remains a separate chemical compound.
Potassium Alum Crystals
Potassium alum crystals, or potassium aluminum sulfate dodecahydrate, are a classic double sulfate salt used in water purification, leather tanning, and as a styptic agent. As a hydrated double sulfate of potassium and aluminum, it is the archetypal alum and is classified under tariff item 2833.30.00. The product is chemically defined and falls within chapter 28's scope for separate chemical compounds.