Carmine Lake Pigment

Carmine lake pigment is a precipitated aluminum or calcium salt of carminic acid extracted from cochineal insects (Dactylopius coccus), used as a bright red colorant in paints and inks. Classified under HTS 3203.00.80.00 for animal-origin coloring matter, including dyeing extracts.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China3.1%+25.0%28.1%
🇲🇽Mexico3.1%3.1%
🇨🇦Canada3.1%3.1%
🇩🇪Germany3.1%3.1%
🇯🇵Japan3.1%3.1%

Alternative Classifications

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

3204.17Lower: 16.5% vs 28.1%

If chemically modified into synthetic pigment

Synthetic organic pigments derived from natural matter shift to heading 3204.

3212.90.00Higher: 38.1% vs 28.1%

If dispersed in nonaqueous media for paint production

Chapter note excludes such dispersions from 3203; they go to 3212 as paint ingredients.

0510.00Lower: 10% vs 28.1%

If crude insect material

Unprocessed cochineal insects are edible products under Chapter 5, not extracts.

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

Provide extraction process documentation to distinguish from synthetic reds and confirm animal origin

Comply with REACH or TSCA for pigment imports; test for allergens if destined for cosmetics