Cetyl Alcohol (Hexadecan-1-ol)
Cetyl alcohol, or hexadecan-1-ol, is a C16 saturated fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in skincare formulations and pharmaceuticals. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound, meeting the criteria of Chapter 29 Note 1(a).
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 |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the cetyl alcohol is mixed with other saturated monohydric alcohols not specifically named
Mixtures of alcohols not covered by the specific tariff item fall under the residual subheading for other saturated monohydric alcohols.
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
• Ensure the product is pure hexadecan-1-ol (≥99%) and not a mixture with other alcohols, which may affect classification
• Declare the CAS number (36653-82-4) on customs documents to expedite CBSA processing
• Verify if the product requires a cosmetic ingredient notification if used in personal care products
Related Products under Tariff item 2905.17.00
Cetyl/Stearyl Alcohol Blend (C16-18)
Cetearyl alcohol is a blend of cetyl (C16) and stearyl (C18) alcohols, used as an opacifier and stabilizer in lotions and cosmetic bases. It contains the named alcohols of tariff item 2905.17.00 and, as a mixture of isomers or compounds, is classifiable under Chapter 29 Note 1(b) when the constituents are the named alcohols.
Laboratory Reference Standard Lauryl Alcohol
Laboratory reference standard lauryl alcohol is analytical grade dodecan-1-ol used as a GC/MS reference standard and calibration material. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound with high purity (>99.5%), meeting Chapter 29 Note 1(a) despite laboratory packaging.
Lauryl Alcohol (Dodecan-1-ol)
Lauryl alcohol, or dodecan-1-ol, is a saturated monohydric acyclic alcohol with 12 carbon atoms, used as a chemical intermediate and surfactant raw material in cosmetics and detergents. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound, meeting Chapter 29 Note 1(a).
Lorol C12-14 Fatty Alcohol Blend (Lauryl/Myristyl)
Lorol C12-14 is a commercial fatty alcohol blend dominated by lauryl (C12) and myristyl (C14) alcohols, used as a surfactant base in shampoo and soap manufacturing. It is classifiable under tariff item 2905.17.00 when lauryl alcohol (dodecan-1-ol) predominates, as the named alcohol is the primary constituent.
Pharma Grade Cetyl Alcohol
Pharma grade cetyl alcohol is high-purity hexadecan-1-ol meeting USP/EP standards for pharmaceutical ointments and suppositories. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound with purity exceeding 99%, meeting Chapter 29 Note 1(a) and suitable for pharmaceutical use.
Stearyl Alcohol for Candle Manufacturing
Stearyl alcohol for candle manufacturing is pure octadecan-1-ol used to modify wax opacity and burn characteristics. It is a separate chemically defined organic compound, meeting Chapter 29 Note 1(a) despite its end-use labeling, and is classifiable under tariff item 2905.17.00.