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Sorbitan Monooleate Emulsifier

Sorbitan monooleate is a non-ionic surfactant derived from sorbitol esterified with oleic acid from vegetable oils. It functions as an emulsifier in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, meeting the non-ionic surface-active agent criteria in Chapter 34 Note 3. It is classified under tariff item 3402.42.90 as an 'other' non-ionic organic surface-active agent.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN TariffSurtaxesTotal Effective Rate
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡³China6.5%β€”6.5%
πŸ‡²πŸ‡½Mexico6.5%β€”6.5%
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡ΈUnited States6.5%β€”6.5%
πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺGermany6.5%β€”6.5%
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅Japan6.5%β€”6.5%

Alternative Classifications

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

3402.42.10Lower: Free vs 6.5%

If the product is a polyether polyol with a hydroxyl number of 265 or more, for polyurethane moulding.

This alternative applies if the sorbitan monooleate meets the specific hydroxyl number and end-use criteria.

Not sure which classification is right?

The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item β€” and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.

Import Tips & Compliance

β€’ Provide a technical data sheet confirming the ester composition and non-ionic surfactant properties

β€’ If used in food or pharmaceuticals, ensure compliance with Health Canada and Canadian Food Inspection Agency regulations

β€’ Verify if the product is subject to Canada's Chemicals Management Plan for import reporting

Related Products under Tariff item 3402.42.90

Algal Oil Surfactant

Algal oil surfactant is a non-ionic surface-active agent derived from fatty acids of microalgae, used in sustainable cleaning products. It meets the Chapter 34 definition of organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension and forming stable emulsions. Classified under tariff item 3402.42.90 as an 'other' non-ionic surfactant.

Alkylphenol Ethoxylate NPE-10

Alkylphenol Ethoxylate NPE-10 is a non-ionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating alkylphenol with 10 moles of ethylene oxide. It is used in textile scouring and metal cleaning applications. This product falls under tariff item 3402.42.90 as a non-ionic organic surface-active agent, other than the specific polyether polyols covered by sibling item 3402.42.10.

Avocado Oil Emulsifier

Avocado oil emulsifier is a non-ionic surfactant produced from avocado fatty acids, used in premium cosmetic formulations. It functions as an emulsifier by reducing interfacial tension between oil and water phases. Classified under 3402.42.90 as an 'other' non-ionic organic surface-active agent.

Beeswax Ethoxylated Surfactant

Beeswax ethoxylated surfactant is a non-ionic surface-active agent created by ethoxylating modified beeswax, an animal-origin natural wax ester. It meets the Chapter 34 surface-active tests and is used in cosmetic formulations. Classified under 3402.42.90 as an 'other' non-ionic surfactant.

Bisphenol A Ethoxylate Surfactant

Bisphenol A Ethoxylate Surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant created by ethoxylating bisphenol A, an aromatic compound, with ethylene oxide. It is used in epoxy resin emulsification and other industrial applications. This product is classified under 3402.42.90 as a non-ionic organic surface-active agent, not meeting the specific polyether polyol criteria of the sibling item.

C12-C14 Alcohol Ethoxylate Polyether Surfactant

C12-C14 Alcohol Ethoxylate Polyether Surfactant is a non-ionic polyether surfactant derived from fatty alcohols of vegetable origin (C12-C14 chain), used in laundry detergents and household cleaners. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by forming stable emulsions and reducing surface tension. This product falls under 3402.42.90 as a non-ionic organic surface-active agent, not qualifying as a polyether polyol under the sibling item.