Pharmaceutical Gelatin Capsules
Pharmaceutical gelatin capsules are empty hard capsules made from animal-derived gelatin, used for enclosing medicines. They are classified under tariff item 3503.00.00 as gelatin derivatives, as they are formed from gelatin sheets and not filled with medicaments. Chapter 30 excludes only filled medicaments, so empty capsules remain in heading 35.03.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the capsules are filled with pharmaceutical products
Medicaments put up in measured doses fall in Chapter 30, not gelatin of heading 35.03.
If the capsules are made of plastic rather than gelatin
Plastic articles for the conveyance of goods fall in Chapter 39.
If the capsules are made from milk protein
Milk protein substances are classified in heading 35.04 per supplementary note 1.
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 capsules are empty and not filled with any medicament, as filled capsules fall in Chapter 30
• Declare the intended use (pharmaceutical) to the CBSA, which may require additional documentation
• Check if the capsules meet Health Canada standards for drug packaging
Related Products under Tariff item 3503.00.00
Animal Glue Pellets for Furniture Assembly
Pelletized hide and bone glue blend, inedible and valued over 88 cents per kg, designed for hot-press furniture assembly lines. The product's consistent melt properties ensure reliable bonding in industrial applications. It qualifies as an animal glue of heading 35.03, excluding casein glues.
Animal Skin Glue Liquid
Liquid glue from rabbit or goat skins for art restoration, valued over 88 cents per kg. This product is an animal glue of heading 35.03, provided it is not prepared as a Chapter 34 product with solvents or enzymes. The liquid form does not preclude classification as an animal glue.
Bladder Glue for Instruments
Specialty glue from animal bladders for musical instrument repair, valued over 88 cents per kg. This product is an animal-origin glue of heading 35.03, similar to isinglass variants. It is not casein-based and not hardened.
Bloom 250 Gelatin Sheets
High-bloom strength (250) rectangular gelatin sheets for professional confectionery, valued over 88 cents per kg. These sheets are surface-worked or colored gelatin of animal origin, fitting heading 35.03. They are used in molding candies and are not mixed products of Chapter 21.
Bone Glue Granules
Granulated inedible glue from animal bones, priced under 88 cents per kg for industrial adhesives. It is an animal-origin glue, classifiable under 3503.00.00 as other glues of animal origin, excluding casein.
Bone Glue Powder
Powdered glue extracted from animal bones, used in woodworking and bookbinding, valued over 88 cents per kg. This product is an animal glue of heading 35.03, excluding casein glues and enzymatic preparations of Chapter 34. The powder form is a standard industrial adhesive.