2-Sulfoethanol from Japan
2-Sulfoethanol (isethionic acid) is a sulfonated ethanol derivative used in surfactant production and as a pharmaceutical intermediate. Classified under HTS 2905.59.90.00 as 'other' sulfonated acyclic alcohol per Chapter 29 note 4, despite potential soap-like applications. The sulfonic acid remains covalently bound.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
22%
Rate breakdown
9903.04.629.5%Patented pharmaceutical articles that are the product of Japan, of a European Union member country, of South Korea, of Switzerland, or of Liechtenstein as provided for in subdivisions (c) and (f) of U.S. note 40 to this subchapter
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• pH and acid value testing confirms sulfonic acid vs neutralized salt form
• Corrosive liquid UN 3265 classification requires specific overpack requirements
• Pure compound status verified against Chapter 29 note 1(g) addition prohibitions