Cetrimonium Chloride Surfactant
Cetrimonium chloride is a cationic quaternary ammonium surfactant commonly used in hair conditioners and fabric softeners for its antistatic and conditioning properties. It qualifies as an organic surface-active agent under Chapter 34 Note 3, as it forms stable emulsions and reduces water surface tension. The product is classified as a cationic surface-active agent under this tariff item.
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 imported as a finished hair conditioner containing cetrimonium chloride
Preparations for hair care are classified in Chapter 33 when the surfactant is part of a formulated product.
If used as a finishing agent in textile or leather processing
Finishing agents with surfactant properties may fall under Chapter 38.
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 not a separate chemically defined compound; if it is, Chapter 34 Note 1(b) excludes it
• If the product is part of a finished cosmetic formulation, verify whether it is classified here or as a preparation under Chapter 33
• Keep safety data sheets and technical specifications for customs clearance
Related Products under Tariff item 3402.41.00
Benzalkonium Chloride 80% Solution
Benzalkonium Chloride 80% Solution is a cationic quaternary ammonium surfactant used as a disinfectant and preservative. It qualifies under tariff item 3402.41.00 as a cationic organic surface-active agent, meeting the Chapter 34 criteria for surface tension reduction and emulsion stability.
Benzalkonium Chloride Concentrate
Benzalkonium chloride is a cationic quaternary ammonium compound widely used as an antiseptic, preservative, and cleaning agent. It functions as an organic surface-active agent by reducing surface tension and forming stable emulsions in aqueous solutions, meeting the criteria of Chapter 34 Note 3. This tariff item covers cationic surface-active agents whether or not put up for retail sale.
Benzethonium Chloride Powder
Benzethonium Chloride Powder is an aromatic quaternary ammonium cationic surfactant used in antiseptics and cosmetics. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents, including water dispersibility and surface tension reduction, and is classified under 3402.41.00 as a cationic agent.
Cationic Emulsifier for Bitumen
Cationic emulsifiers for bitumen, such as fatty amine derivatives, are organic surface-active agents that enable the formation of stable oil-in-water emulsions for road construction. They satisfy the Chapter 34 Note 3 test by reducing water surface tension to 45 dyne/cm or less. The product is classified as a cationic surface-active agent under this tariff item.
Cationic Polymer Surfactant BTPC
Benzethonium chloride (BTPC) is a cationic surfactant polymer used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and antiseptic preparations. It acts as an organic surface-active agent by lowering surface tension and stabilizing emulsions, meeting the technical definition in Chapter 34 Note 3. This tariff item applies to cationic surface-active agents regardless of retail packaging.
Cetrimonium Chloride Technical Grade
Cetrimonium Chloride Technical Grade is a cationic surfactant used as a conditioning agent in hair care and antistatic treatments. It forms stable emulsions and reduces surface tension, satisfying the Chapter 34 tests for organic surface-active agents, and is classified under 3402.41.00.