Benzoic Acid
Benzoic acid (C6H5COOH) is an aromatic monocarboxylic acid used as a food preservative, in pharmaceuticals, and as a chemical intermediate. It falls under HTS 2915.90.20.00 as a saturated aromatic monocarboxylic acid, distinct from its derivatives or anhydrides.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If imported as sodium benzoate salt
Benzoic acid salts are classified under carboxylic acid salts in heading 2916, which occurs later in numerical order.
If esterified, like methyl benzoate
Esters of aromatic monocarboxylic acids fall under heading 2916 per chapter note on ester classification.
If in mixtures or solutions exceeding chapter note (e) limits
Preparations containing benzoic acid as preservative may classify as chemical preparations outside pure compounds.
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
• Provide detailed chemical analysis certificates confirming aromatic monocarboxylic acid structure and purity levels
• Ensure compliance with FDA regulations for food-grade benzoic acid imports, including prior notice requirements
• Avoid misclassification as derivatives; pure benzoic acid excludes salts, esters, or halogenated forms
Related Products under HTS 2915.90.20.00
o-Toluic Acid
o-Toluic acid (2-methylbenzoic acid) is a substituted aromatic monocarboxylic acid used in synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Classified under HTS 2915.90.20.00 as an aromatic 'other' saturated monocarboxylic acid.
Phenylacetic Acid
Phenylacetic acid (C6H5CH2COOH) is an aromatic monocarboxylic acid used in penicillin synthesis and as a flavoring agent. Falls under HTS 2915.90.20.00 as a saturated aromatic acid, structurally alpha-toluic acid.
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid (hydroxyphenylacetic acid) is an alpha-hydroxy aromatic monocarboxylic acid used in skincare and antibiotics. Classifies under HTS 2915.90.20.00 as aromatic saturated monocarboxylic acid.
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid
4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is a phenolic aromatic monocarboxylic acid used as preservative (paraben precursor) in cosmetics. Falls under HTS 2915.90.20.00 for aromatic monocarboxylic acids.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid (2-hydroxybenzoic acid) is an aromatic monocarboxylic acid with ortho-hydroxy group, used in acne treatments and aspirin synthesis. Classified in HTS 2915.90.20.00 as aromatic saturated acid.
Naphthoic Acid
1-Naphthoic acid is a bicyclic aromatic monocarboxylic acid used in dye intermediates and pharmaceuticals. Under HTS 2915.90.20.00 as other aromatic monocarboxylic acid.