Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)
LABSA is a sulfonic acid derivative of linear alkylbenzene, falling under 2908.99.1200 as it contains only sulfo groups from phenol-alcohol derivatives. Widely used as an intermediate for manufacturing biodegradable detergents. Its chemically defined structure distinguishes it from formulated products.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If neutralized and formulated into detergent paste
Surface-active preparations exceed scope of pure chapter 29 compounds
If classified by saturated acyclic structure rather than sulfo function
Heading order prioritizes sulfo derivatives but structure determines base heading
If for industrial use as prepared chemical additive
Blends or preparations for specific uses fall outside pure compound definitions
Not sure which classification is right?
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
• Ensure documentation specifies linear chain length (C10-C13) to confirm chemical identity
• Acid form requires proper UN packaging certification for corrosive goods
• Avoid misclassification as petroleum sulfonate (Chapter 27) by proving synthetic origin
Related Products under HTS 2908.99.12.00
Sodium Xylenesulfonate
Sodium salt of xylenesulfonic acid, a sulfonated alkylbenzene derivative under HTS 2908.99.1200. Functions as hydrotrope in liquid detergents to prevent phase separation. Chemically defined structure with only sulfo groups per chapter requirements.
Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (DOSS)
Anionic surfactant with sulfosuccinate ester structure, classified under 2908.99.1200 as sulfo derivative per note 5(A) ester classification. Used in pharmaceuticals, food emulsification, and industrial wetting agents. Single sulfo group maintains chapter 29 status.
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Sulfate ester of lauryl alcohol with ammonium counterion, falling under 2908.99.1200 as sulfo derivative salt. Common in personal care foaming products. Chemically defined per chapter 29 note 2(a).
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
An anionic surfactant consisting of a sulfonated alkylbenzene chain with sodium salt formation, classified under HTS 2908.99.1200 as a derivative containing only sulfo groups. Used primarily in laundry detergents and cleaning formulations for its emulsifying properties. Meets chapter 29 requirements for chemically defined organic sulfonates.
Calcium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
A calcium salt of dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid, classified in 2908.99.1200 per chapter note 5(C) for organic salts of sulfo-group compounds. Used as emulsifier in lubricants and agricultural formulations. Qualifies as chemically defined with only sulfo functionality.