Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)
Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA) is a primary anionic surfactant used in detergent manufacturing, characterized by its aromatic structure and water solubility. It reduces surface tension to facilitate cleaning, meeting the criteria for organic surface-active agents in heading 34.02. It is classified here as an anionic surface-active agent other than the sodium salt.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | 6.5% | — | 6.5% |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | 6.5% | — | 6.5% |
| 🇺🇸United States | 6.5% | — | 6.5% |
| 🇩🇪Germany | 6.5% | — | 6.5% |
| 🇯🇵Japan | 6.5% | — | 6.5% |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the acid is converted to sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate
The sodium salt form is specifically classified under this alternative tariff item.
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
• Provide a certificate of analysis showing the product meets the surface tension reduction test in Chapter Note 3
• Confirm the product is not a separate chemically defined compound, which would be excluded from Chapter 34
• If the product is neutralized to a sodium salt, classification may shift to 3402.31.10
Related Products under Tariff item 3402.31.90
Ammonium Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
Ammonium Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate is an anionic surfactant used in low-foam industrial cleaners and agricultural emulsifiers. Its ammonium salt form of LABSA provides water dispersibility and effective surface tension reduction, meeting the criteria for organic surface-active agents in heading 34.02. It is classified under this tariff item as an anionic surface-active agent other than sodium alkylbenzene sulphonates.
C10-13 Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid
C10-13 Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid is a broad-cut anionic surfactant used in personal care emulsifiers and industrial degreasers. Its alkyl chain distribution and aromatic sulfonic acid structure qualify it as an anionic organic surface-active agent under heading 34.02. This product falls under tariff item 3402.31.90 as 'Other' since it is not specifically a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate for the manufacture of slow dissolving toilet tank solids.
C12-C14 Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid
C12-C14 Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid is a linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid used in heavy-duty liquid detergents and car wash formulations. Its anionic character and water solubility make it a classic organic surface-active agent under heading 34.02. It is classified here as an anionic surface-active agent other than the sodium salt form.
Calcium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate
Calcium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate is a calcium salt of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid used as a corrosion inhibitor in lubricants and as an overbased detergent. Despite its end-use, it retains anionic surfactant properties and meets the surface activity tests of Chapter 34. It is classified here as an anionic surface-active agent other than the sodium salt.
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA) is a key anionic surfactant used in liquid laundry detergents and industrial cleaners. Its aromatic sulfonic acid structure provides effective emulsification and dirt removal, meeting the criteria for organic surface-active agents in heading 34.02. It is classified here as an anionic surface-active agent other than the sodium salt.
High Active LABSA for Emulsion Polymerization
High Active LABSA for Emulsion Polymerization is an ultra-pure (>98% active) linear alkylbenzene sulfonic acid designed for latex and paint emulsion stabilizers. Its high purity and industrial-grade quality make it suitable as an anionic surface-active agent under heading 34.02. It is classified under 3402.31.90 as 'Other' because it does not meet the specific sodium salt or end-use requirements of the sibling item.