Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA) from Japan
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.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• 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