Raw Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL)
Raw cashew nut shell liquid is a natural vegetable extract obtained from the pericarp of cashew nuts during processing. It consists primarily of phenolic compounds like anacardic acid, cardanol, and cardol, making it a versatile industrial raw material. Classified under HTS 1302.19.91.20 as a specific type of other vegetable sap or extract.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If chemically modified into synthetic polymers or resins
Once processed into synthetic organic polymers like friction dust or phenolic resins, it shifts from natural extract to Chapter 38 synthetic preparations.
If distilled and purified to isolate cardanol as a saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid
Distilled CNSL fractions like cardanol are classified as specific organic chemicals in Chapter 29 rather than crude vegetable extracts.
If formulated as a synthetic organic coloring matter or pigment preparation
When mixed with extenders or used as colorants in industrial applications, it falls under Chapter 32 tanning/dyeing extracts.
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The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify purity and composition to ensure it meets the 'cashew nut shell liquid' specification without additives exceeding exclusions in chapter notes
• Obtain certificates of analysis from suppliers confirming phenolic content
• Check for restrictions on biohazardous materials due to natural toxin content
Related Products under HTS 1302.19.91.20
Distilled Cardanol from Cashew Nut Shell Liquid
Distilled cardanol is a refined fraction of cashew nut shell liquid, primarily containing meta-substituted alkyl phenols derived from anacardic acid decarboxylation. It serves as a key bio-based monomer for resins and coatings. Still classified under HTS 1302.19.91.20 when imported as cashew nut shell liquid derivative without full chemical transformation.
Technical Grade Cashew Nut Shell Extract (CNSL 60%)
Technical grade CNSL extract contains approximately 60% phenolic content from cashew nut shells, standardized for industrial use in friction materials and paints. It remains a direct vegetable sap/extract without exclusionary additives like sugars or medicaments. HTS 1302.19.91.20 specifically covers this cashew-derived product.
Decarboxylated Cashew Nut Shell Liquid for Resins
Decarboxylated CNSL undergoes heating to convert anacardic acids to cardanols, yielding a stable extract for phenolic resin production. This semi-processed form retains its identity as cashew nut shell liquid extract. Falls squarely under HTS 1302.19.91.20 as specified vegetable extract.