Crude Glycerol from Biodiesel Production from China
Crude glycerol is a byproduct obtained during the transesterification process in biodiesel manufacturing from vegetable oils or animal fats. It typically contains 80-88% glycerol along with methanol, soaps, and catalyst residues, falling under HTS 1520.00.00.00 as crude glycerol not further refined.
Duty Rate — China → United States
20%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Verify glycerol purity levels (<95%) via lab analysis to confirm crude classification; refined glycerol shifts to HTS 1520.90
• Include Certificates of Analysis (COA) detailing impurities like methanol and salts to avoid reclassification as hazardous waste
• Check for biodiesel origin documentation, as EU/US crude glycerol often requires sustainability certifications for preferential tariffs