Benzene Sulfonate Wetting Agent
Benzene Sulfonate Wetting Agent is a pure aromatic benzene sulfonate derivative used to enhance spreading in agriculture, textiles, and coatings. It meets the definition of an organic surface-active agent under tariff item 3402.49.00 by reducing surface tension in water. As a separate chemically defined compound, it is excluded from Chapter 34 by note 1(b) and should not be classified here.
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 product is a separate chemically defined aromatic sulfonate
Separate chemically defined compounds are excluded from Chapter 34 and classified in Chapter 29.
If the product is formulated as a preparation with additives
Preparations of surface-active agents fall under a different subheading.
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
• Confirm whether the product is a separate chemically defined compound; if so, it is excluded from Chapter 34 under note 1(b)
• If it is a mixture, prepare documentation showing surface tension reduction to support classification
• Consult a customs broker to determine the correct heading for pure chemical compounds
Related Products under Tariff item 3402.49.00
Alcohol Ethoxylate C12-C14 (AE 9EO)
Alcohol ethoxylate C12-C14 (AE 9EO) is a nonionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating fatty alcohols, used in laundry detergents and hard surface cleaners. It meets the heading 34.02 definition of organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension and forming stable emulsions. This product is classified under tariff item 3402.49.00 as an 'other' organic surface-active agent, not put up for retail sale.
Alkylbenzene Sulfonate Surfactant Blend
Alkylbenzene Sulfonate Surfactant Blend is a mixture of modified aromatic alkylbenzene sulfonates used as an industrial detergent raw material. It qualifies as an organic surface-active agent under tariff item 3402.49.00 because it reduces surface tension in aqueous solutions and is not put up for retail sale. This blend is not a separate chemically defined compound, so it falls under the 'Other' category of organic surface-active agents.
Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Chloride (CTAC 25%)
Cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC 25%) is a cationic surfactant used in fabric softeners and hair conditioners for its anti-static properties. It satisfies the heading 34.02 technical tests for organic surface-active agents, including surface tension reduction and emulsion stability. This bulk product, not for retail sale, falls under tariff item 3402.49.00 as an 'other' organic surface-active agent.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB 30%)
Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB 30%) is an amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil, providing mild foaming and conditioning in personal care products. It meets heading 34.02's technical criteria for organic surface-active agents, including stable emulsion formation and surface tension reduction. This bulk liquid, not for retail sale, is classified under tariff item 3402.49.00 as an 'other' organic surface-active agent.
Decyl Glucoside
Decyl glucoside is a mild nonionic surfactant derived from glucose and decyl alcohol, used in eco-friendly baby shampoos and cleansers. It complies with heading 34.02 organic surface-active criteria via emulsion stability and surface tension reduction. This bulk APG surfactant, not for retail sale, falls under tariff item 3402.49.00 as an 'other' organic surface-active agent.
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA)
Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA) is a modified aromatic sulfonic acid surfactant used in household and industrial cleaners. It qualifies as an organic surface-active agent under tariff item 3402.49.00 because it reduces surface tension and is not a separate chemically defined compound in its commercial form. DDBSA is typically supplied as a mixture with water or other solvents, making it classifiable under this item.