Citric Acid for Beverage Industry

High-purity citric acid specifically for beverage acidification and preservation falls under HTS 2918.14.00.00 as the chemically defined citric acid compound. It provides tartness in sodas, sports drinks, and juices while chelating metals. Meets chapter requirements for separate organic compounds without disqualifying additives.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China6%+35.0%41%
🇲🇽Mexico6%+10.0%16%
🇨🇦Canada6%+10.0%16%
🇩🇪Germany6%+10.0%16%
🇯🇵Japan6%+10.0%16%

Alternative Classifications

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

2009.19.00.00Lower: 7.5% vs 41%

If imported dissolved in juice concentrates

Juice products with citric acid as preservative classified by principal fruit content in Chapter 20.

2918Same rate: 41%

If mistaken for carboxylic acid plasticizers

Different oxygen function or derivative structure would shift to other subheadings in 2918.

Not sure which classification is right?

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Import Tips & Compliance

Specify 'beverage grade' on commercial invoice; pair with solubility test results (should dissolve fully in water)

Comply with 21 CFR 184.1033 for GRAS affirmation; provide supplier GMP certification

Related Products under HTS 2918.14.00.00

Citric Acid Monohydrate USP Grade

Citric acid monohydrate (C6H8O7·H2O) retains the core tricarboxylic acid structure with alcohol function, classified under HTS 2918.14.00.00 as the hydrated form of the pure compound. USP grade meets pharmaceutical standards for purity and is used in effervescent tablets and syrups. The water of hydration does not alter its classification per chapter notes.

Pharmaceutical Citric Acid Anhydrous BP

BP-grade anhydrous citric acid for pharmaceutical applications is classified under HTS 2918.14.00.00 due to its pure tricarboxylic acid with alcohol function. Used as buffering agent in injectables, effervescent formulations, and vitamin C production. British Pharmacopoeia standards confirm its status as a separate chemically defined compound.

Granular Citric Acid with Stabilizer

Granular citric acid with added stabilizer (per note f) for preservation during transport remains under HTS 2918.14.00.00. The anticaking agent is minimal and necessary, not rendering it for specific use. Ideal for long-haul shipments to baking and confectionery industries.

Citric Acid Technical Grade

Technical grade citric acid (99% purity) for industrial uses like detergents and metal cleaning is classified under HTS 2918.14.00.00 as the chemically defined compound. Lower purity than food/pharma grades but still meets chapter note (a) for separate organic compounds with impurities.

Effervescent Citric Acid Base

Pure citric acid component for effervescent formulations (combined with bicarbonate) classified under HTS 2918.14.00.00 when imported separately. Provides the acid reaction for tablets and powders used in vitamin supplements. Remains a separate chemically defined compound.

Citric Acid for Cosmetics

Cosmetic-grade citric acid used for pH adjustment in lotions, shampoos, and peels falls under HTS 2918.14.00.00 as the pure organic compound with alcohol function. High purity ensures skin safety and stability in formulations.