Lactic Acid Oligomers

Linear oligomers of lactic acid (3-10 monomer units) with terminal carboxylic acid and hydroxyl functions. Classified 2918.99.5000 due to multiple oxygen functions on the hydroxy acid chain. Used as biodegradable plasticizers and pharma intermediates.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณChina4%โ€”4%
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝMexico4%โ€”4%
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆCanada4%โ€”4%
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ชGermany4%โ€”4%
๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ตJapan4%โ€”4%

Alternative Classifications

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

3903.19.00.00Higher: 41.5% vs 4%

If number average MW exceeds 1000 or viscosity indicates polymer status

Polymers of hydroxy acids classified in Chapter 39 regardless of monomer identity.

2918.18.00Higher: 41.5% vs 4%

If classified by principal hydroxy acid function rather than additional oxygen

Citric/malic/tartaric acids have specific provisions preceding 'other' category.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

โ€ข Provide GPC/SEC analysis showing MW 200-800 Da to distinguish from polymers (3903.19)

โ€ข Specify lactide content <1% to avoid lactone classification under 2932

โ€ข Biobased content certification may qualify for duty preference programs

Related Products under HTS 2918.99.50.00

Polyethylene Glycol Diacetate

Diacetate ester of polyethylene glycol, featuring multiple acetate ester groups and ether oxygen functions on the PEG chain. Classified in 2918.99.5000 as carboxylic ester with additional oxygen function. Used in pharmaceuticals and polymer synthesis.

Tartaric Acid Esters

Mono- or diesters of tartaric acid with C1-C6 alcohols, retaining free carboxyl and hydroxyl functions. HTS 2918.99.5000 as carboxylic acids with additional oxygen function. Used in chiral synthesis and food antioxidants.

Citric Acid Monoglyceride

Partial ester of citric acid and glycerol, featuring multiple carboxyl, ester, and hydroxyl oxygen functions. Classified 2918.99.5000 per Chapter 29 ester classification rules. Used as emulsifier in food and cosmetics.

Triacetin (Glycerol Triacetate)

Triacetin is the triester of glycerol and acetic acid, classified under HTS 2918.99.5000 as a carboxylic acid ester with additional oxygen function (multiple ester groups). It is a chemically defined organic compound used as a plasticizer, solvent, and pharmaceutical excipient. This fits Chapter 29 note (A) for esters classified by the later-occurring compound.

Glyceryl Monostearate (GMS)

Glyceryl monostearate is a monoester of glycerol and stearic acid, providing both ester and alcohol oxygen functions, classified in 2918.99.5000. Used as an emulsifier in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Meets Chapter 29 criteria for chemically defined carboxylic esters with additional oxygen functions.

Monoacetin (Glycerol Monoacetate)

Monoacetin is the monoester of glycerol and acetic acid, with two free hydroxyl groups providing additional oxygen functions. Falls under HTS 2918.99.5000 as chemically defined ester. Used as humectant, solvent, and in nicotine delivery systems.