Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid (alpha-hydroxyphenylacetic acid) is an aromatic alpha-hydroxy acid with both carboxylic acid and alcohol functions on adjacent carbons. It qualifies under HTS 2918.19.20.00 per additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for these specific compounds. Commonly used in skincare for exfoliation and in pharmaceuticals as an antibacterial agent.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China6.5%+17.5%24%
🇲🇽Mexico6.5%+10.0%16.5%
🇨🇦Canada6.5%+10.0%16.5%
🇩🇪Germany6.5%+10.0%16.5%
🇯🇵Japan6.5%+10.0%16.5%

Alternative Classifications

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

2918.19.90.00Higher: 29% vs 24%

If aliphatic or cyclic but not aromatic

Non-aromatic versions classified as 'other' carboxylic acids with alcohol function.

3824.99Lower: 15% vs 24%

If imported as chemical mixture >70% pure

Mixtures of organic chemicals fall to Chapter 38 if not meeting pure compound criteria.

2932.99.70Higher: 31.5% vs 24%

If containing heterocyclic ring structure

Heterocyclic compounds with oxygen functions classified in heading 2932.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Provide detailed chemical structure and CAS number (90-64-2) to confirm aromatic alcohol function classification

For cosmetic-grade imports, separate bulk chemical from finished products to avoid Chapter 33 duties

Watch for contamination; impure lots may be reclassified under general 2918.19 provisions

Related Products under HTS 2918.19.20.00

Salicylic Acid USP

Salicylic acid is an aromatic carboxylic acid with a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the benzene ring, classifying it as a carboxylic acid with alcohol function but without other oxygen functions. It falls under HTS 2918.19.20.00 as a product described in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI for this specific aromatic compound. Used primarily in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics for its keratolytic properties.

4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is a phenolic carboxylic acid with the hydroxyl group para to the carboxyl group on the benzene ring. Classified under HTS 2918.19.20.00 as specified in additional U.S. note 3 to section VI. Used as a preservative (paraben precursor) and in polymer production.

Vanillic Acid

Vanillic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzoic acid) features both phenolic hydroxyl and methoxy groups on aromatic ring. Falls under HTS 2918.19.20.00 per U.S. note 3 as aromatic carboxylic acid with alcohol function. Natural flavor precursor used in food and fragrance industries.

Gallic Acid

Gallic acid (3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid) contains three hydroxyl groups on the aromatic ring. Specifically included in HTS 2918.19.20.00 under additional U.S. note 3 to section VI. Used in inks, tanning agents, and as antioxidant in pharmaceuticals.

Gentisic Acid

Gentisic acid (2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid) is an aromatic dihydroxybenzoic acid used as pharmaceutical intermediate and analytical reagent. Classified in HTS 2918.19.20.00 as specified by additional U.S. note 3 for these compounds. Known for analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Protocatechuic Acid

Protocatechuic acid (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid) features adjacent hydroxyl groups ortho to each other on the benzene ring. Included in HTS 2028.19.20.00 per U.S. note 3 as aromatic carboxylic acid with alcohol function. Used in antioxidants and biochemical research.