Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic polysaccharide derived from cellulose through etherification with propylene oxide and methyl chloride. It is widely used in pharmaceuticals for capsule shells and controlled-release formulations, as well as in construction and food. Supplied in primary powder or granular form, it falls under tariff item 3913.90.00.
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 product is a cellulose ether classified under heading 3912
Cellulose ethers are specifically classified in heading 3912, which takes precedence over 3913.
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 the HPMC is not classified under heading 3912 as a cellulose ether
• Provide the degree of substitution and viscosity specifications
• If used in pharmaceuticals, ensure compliance with Health Canada's Drug Establishment Licensing
Related Products under Tariff item 3913.90.00
Carboxymethyl Guar Gum
Carboxymethyl guar gum is a chemically modified derivative of guar gum, a natural polysaccharide. The carboxymethylation enhances water solubility, making it suitable for cosmetics, oil recovery, and food applications. It is supplied in primary powder form and falls under tariff item 3913.90.00 as a modified natural polymer.
Chitosan Powder
Chitosan powder is a deacetylated derivative of chitin, a natural polysaccharide obtained from crustacean shells. It is used in water treatment, wound care, and agricultural applications. Supplied in primary powder form, it is classified under tariff item 3913.90.00 as a modified natural polymer.
Dextran Powder
Dextran powder is a bacterial polysaccharide produced by fermentation of sucrose using Leuconostoc species. It is used as a plasma volume expander in pharmaceuticals and in laboratory reagents. As a natural polymer in primary powder form, it falls under tariff item 3913.90.00.
Gellan Gum
Gellan gum is a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation (Sphingomonas elodea). It is used as a gelling agent in food, pharmaceuticals, and microbiological media. Supplied in primary powder form, it is classified under tariff item 3913.90.00 as a natural polymer.
Guar Gum Powder
Guar gum powder is a galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). It is used as a thickener in food, hydraulic fracturing, and textile processing. As a natural polymer in primary powder form, it falls under tariff item 3913.90.00.
Gutta-Percha Resin
Gutta-percha is a natural polymer (trans-1,4-polyisoprene) obtained from Palaquium trees. It is supplied in primary forms such as resin pellets and is used in golf ball covers, dental materials, and electrical insulation. As a natural polymer not elsewhere specified, it falls under tariff item 3913.90.00.