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Toluene Sulfonic Acid (TSA)

Toluene Sulfonic Acid (TSA) is an aromatic compound with a sulfonic acid group, used as a catalyst and anionic surfactant in polymerization and cleaning applications. It is classifiable under tariff item 3402.39.10 as a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate when used in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN TariffSurtaxesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree—Free
🇲🇽MexicoFree—Free
🇺🇸United StatesFree—Free
🇩🇪GermanyFree—Free
🇯🇵JapanFree—Free

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3402.39.90Higher: 6.5% vs Free

If used as a catalyst rather than a surfactant

Other anionic surface-active agents or separate chemically defined compounds may not qualify.

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 TSA is in sodium salt form and intended for toilet tank solids

• Keep records of the end-use to support classification

• Note that TSA used as a catalyst may be classified elsewhere

Related Products under Tariff item 3402.39.10

Alpha Olefin Sulfonate Sodium Salt

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA) is an anionic surfactant with an aromatic benzene ring modified by a long alkyl chain and a sulfonic acid group. It is used in heavy-duty industrial cleaners, emulsifiers, and agricultural formulations. This product falls under tariff item 3402.39.10 because it is a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate specifically intended for use in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids.

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)

Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA) is an anionic surfactant with an aromatic benzene ring modified by a long alkyl chain and a sulfonic acid group. It is used in heavy-duty industrial cleaners, emulsifiers, and agricultural formulations. This product falls under tariff item 3402.39.10 because it is a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate specifically intended for use in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids.

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA) is a synthetic anionic surfactant with an aromatic structure, widely used as the primary active ingredient in liquid laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids. It qualifies under tariff item 3402.39.10 as a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate when used in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids.

Petroleum Sulfonate Anionic Surfactant

Petroleum Sulfonate Anionic Surfactant is derived from petroleum oils and used in emulsifiable oils, metalworking fluids, and enhanced oil recovery. It qualifies under tariff item 3402.39.10 as a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate when used in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids, despite its petroleum origin.

Sodium Xylene Sulfonate

Sodium Xylene Sulfonate is a hydrotropic aromatic anionic surfactant that enhances viscosity and solubility in liquid detergents and cleaning formulations. It falls under tariff item 3402.39.10 as a sodium alkylbenzene sulphonate when used in the manufacture of slow dissolving inside toilet tank solids.