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.
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 formulated as a cleaning preparation
Surface-active preparations are classified separately.
If the product is a pure separate chemically defined compound
Separate chemically defined compounds are excluded from Chapter 34.
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 DDBSA is not a pure separate chemically defined compound; commercial grades with impurities or water are classifiable here
• Provide a certificate of analysis showing surface-active properties
• Check if the product is put up for retail sale, which may affect classification
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.
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.
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.