Carmine Lake Red Pigment from China
Carmine lake is a synthetic color lake derived from cochineal carmine, providing a vibrant red hue used in paints, inks, and cosmetics. It falls under HTS 3205.00.50.20 as a red color lake preparation specified in note 3 to chapter 32, suitable for coloring various materials.
Duty Rate — China → United States
44%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.3112.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
Import Tips
• Verify the pigment is a true color lake (dye precipitated on substrate) via lab analysis to confirm classification under 3205
• Include certificates of composition showing insolubility in water and lake structure to avoid reclassification as synthetic dyes in 3204
• Label batches with exact color shade and purity levels; common pitfall is misdeclaring as 'pigment preparation' under 3212