Sodium Stearate from Japan
Sodium stearate is the sodium salt of stearic acid, a saturated C18 monocarboxylic acid, used primarily as a stabilizer and emulsifier in cosmetics and soaps. It falls under HTS 2915.70.01 as a salt of stearic acid per chapter notes classifying inorganic salts of organic acid-function compounds with the parent acid. Commonly found in bar soaps and personal care formulations.
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
• Verify purity certificate showing stearic acid content >90% to confirm classification under 2915.70.01 vs mixtures in Chapter 38
• Include CAS number 822-16-2 on commercial invoice and SDS for chemical identification during CBP review
• Avoid common pitfall of mislabeling as 'soap' which shifts to Chapter 34; specify as 'industrial chemical salt'