Provitamin A (Beta-Carotene Precursor)
Beta-carotene is the primary provitamin A, a carotenoid that the body converts to retinol (vitamin A) as needed. This chemically defined compound, whether synthetic or natural, is classified under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a provitamin.
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 product is specifically identified as provitamin A
Subheading 2936.21 explicitly covers provitamin A, including beta-carotene, which is more specific than the residual item.
If the product is used as a colouring matter rather than as a vitamin
Chapter 29 note 2 excludes synthetic organic colouring matter, which falls under heading 32.04.
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 beta-carotene is a separate chemically defined compound or a natural concentrate to meet Chapter 29 criteria
• Have documentation showing its provitamin A function
• Verify if the product is regulated as a food additive or supplement by Health Canada
Related Products under Tariff item 2936.90.00
7-Dehydrocholesterol (Provitamin D3)
7-Dehydrocholesterol is the natural provitamin D3 found in animal skin, which converts to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) upon exposure to UVB light. This product, whether synthetic or concentrated, is classified under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a provitamin derivative used primarily as a vitamin.
7-Dehydrocholesterol Provitamin D3 Concentrate
7-Dehydrocholesterol Provitamin D3 Concentrate is a lanolin-derived natural concentrate that serves as a precursor to vitamin D3. It is used primarily in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications where UV activation converts it to active vitamin D. This product falls under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a natural concentrate of a provitamin used primarily as a vitamin.
Ascorbyl Palmitate Antioxidant
Ascorbyl palmitate is a vitamin C ester used primarily as a vitamin derivative and fat-soluble antioxidant in food and cosmetic formulations. This synthetic derivative is classified under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a vitamin derivative.
Beta-Carotene Natural Algal Concentrate
Beta-Carotene Natural Algal Concentrate is extracted from algae and provides provitamin A activity. It is used in dietary supplements and animal feed fortification as a natural source of vitamin A. This concentrate falls under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a natural provitamin concentrate.
Beta-Cryptoxanthin Provitamin A
Beta-cryptoxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid that functions as provitamin A, convertible to retinol in vivo. This synthetic isolate is classified under tariff item 2936.90.00 as a provitamin derivative used primarily for vitamin A activity.
Biotin (Vitamin B7) USP Powder
D-biotin crystalline powder is a synthetic vitamin B7 used primarily in nutritional supplements for hair, skin, and nail health. This chemically defined vitamin reproduced by synthesis is classified under tariff item 2936.90.00.