Phthalocyanine Blue Lake Pigment from Japan

Phthalocyanine Blue Lake is a synthetic color lake pigment derived from copper phthalocyanine dye precipitated on an aluminum hydroxide substrate, classified under HTS 3205.00.50.40 as a blue color lake preparation per chapter note 3. It is used in paints, inks, and plastics for vibrant, lightfast blue coloration.

Duty Rate — Japan → United States

16.5%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter

Import Tips

Verify lake composition via lab analysis to confirm it meets chapter note 3 criteria for color lakes, avoiding misclassification as synthetic organic dyes under 3204

Provide Certificates of Analysis (COA) showing insoluble lake form and substrate (e.g

alumina), as CBP requires proof it's not a soluble dye

Ensure labeling specifies 'blue color lake' and exact chemical base to prevent scrutiny under exclusions for chemically defined compounds in chapter note (a)