Palmitic Acid (C16:0)

Palmitic acid is a saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid with the formula CH3(CH2)14COOH, classified under HTS 2915.70.0110 as a chemically defined organic compound in pure form. It is widely used in cosmetics, soaps, and food emulsifiers due to its emulsifying properties.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China5%+35.0%40%
🇲🇽Mexico5%+10.0%15%
🇨🇦Canada5%+10.0%15%
🇩🇪Germany5%+10.0%15%
🇯🇵Japan5%+10.0%15%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3823.11.00.00Lower: 21.3% vs 40%

If less than 95% purity or contains impurities

Industrial fatty acids of animal/vegetable origin with impurities fall under mixtures, not pure compounds

2915.70.01Same rate: 40%

If supplied as palmitic acid salts like sodium palmitate

Salts of palmitic acid classified separately from the pure acid under the same heading structure

3402Lower: 13.7% vs 40%

If formulated into soap noodles or anionic surface-active preparations

Organic surface-active agents containing palmitic acid derivatives move to Chapter 34

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Provide Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming 98%+ purity to avoid reclassification as mixtures

Declare exact CAS number (57-10-3) and ensure packaging complies with DOT/UN hazardous material regulations

Avoid common pitfalls like insufficient stability data; include stabilizer info if present per Chapter 29 note (f)

Related Products under HTS 2915.70.01.10

Triple Pressed Palmitic Acid Flakes

Triple pressed palmitic acid flakes achieve high purity (>95%) through steam distillation and pressing, meeting HTS 2915.70.0110 for saturated monocarboxylic acids. These flakes are preferred in pharmaceutical and cosmetics manufacturing for consistent melting point (62-65°C).

Pharma Grade Palmitic Acid Powder

Pharmaceutical grade palmitic acid powder meets USP/EP standards with <0.1% impurities, classified under HTS 2915.70.0110 as pure saturated monocarboxylic acid. Used as excipient in tablet formulations and emulsion stabilizers in injectables.

Cosmetic Grade Palmitic Acid Beads

Cosmetic grade palmitic acid beads are microencapsulated for easy dispersion in emulsions, classified HTS 2915.70.0110 as pure palmitic acid per Chapter 29 note (a). Provides opacity and consistency in lotions, creams, and lipsticks.

Food Grade Palmitic Acid Granules

Food grade palmitic acid granules meet FCC standards for use as emulsifier (E570) in margarine, chocolate, and chewing gum, classified HTS 2915.70.0110. The granular form ensures easy handling and dispersion in food manufacturing.

Sodium Palmitate (Palmitic Acid Salt)

While HTS 2915.70.0110 specifically covers palmitic acid, sodium palmitate as its salt falls under the palmitic acid subheading per chapter note on salts. Used in soap manufacturing and as a food emulsifier.

Palmitic Acid 99% Technical Grade

Technical grade palmitic acid at 99% purity for industrial emulsifiers and lubricants, classified HTS 2915.70.0110 as chemically defined compound. Lower cost alternative to pharma grades with acceptable impurity profile.