DL-Malic Acid
DL-Malic acid is a racemic mixture of L- and D-malic acid, a dicarboxylic acid with alcohol function (HOOC-CH(OH)-CH2-COOH). It falls under HTS 2918.19.60.00 as malic acid, a carboxylic acid with alcohol function but without other oxygen functions, chemically defined per Chapter 29 note (a).
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If hydroxy-citric acid instead of malic acid
Different specific carboxylic acid with alcohol function; HTS distinguishes by chemical identity within the same category.
If dissolved in water or solvents exceeding Chapter 29 note (d)/(e) limits
Solutions where solvent renders product suitable for specific use fall outside Chapter 29 into mixtures of chemicals.
If formulated as di-ammonium malate fertilizer
Organic salts/ammonium compounds for fertilizers are excluded from Chapter 29 per note 2 to Chapter 28 and classified in Chapter 31.
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
• Verify purity certificate showing it's chemically defined malic acid, not a mixture or derivative to avoid reclassification
• Provide documentation confirming food-grade or technical grade status; FDA prior notice required for food use
• Check for stabilizers - per Chapter 29 note (f), added stabilizers are allowed if necessary for preservation/transport
Related Products under HTS 2918.19.60.00
L-Malic Acid Food Grade
L-Malic acid, the naturally occurring enantiomer, used as acidulant in beverages and confectionery. Classified under HTS 2918.19.60.00 as pure malic acid meeting Chapter 29 requirements for separate chemically defined organic compounds with carboxylic acid and alcohol functions.
Technical Grade Malic Acid
Technical grade DL-malic acid used in chemical synthesis, cleaning formulations, and industrial applications. HTS 2918.19.60.00 covers this chemically defined dicarboxylic acid with hydroxy group, regardless of end use, per Chapter 29 scope.
Malic Acid 50% Aqueous Solution
50% malic acid dissolved in water for safe transport and handling in food/pharma applications. Allowed under HTS 2918.19.60.00 per Chapter 29 note (d) as malic acid product dissolved in water, provided it's a normal transport method.
Pharmaceutical Grade L-Malic Acid USP
USP-grade L-malic acid meeting pharmacopeia standards for drug formulations and buffering. Classifies under HTS 2918.19.60.00 as pure, chemically defined malic acid enantiomer with required carboxylic/alcohol functions.