Soy-Based Letterpress Ink Black from China
A vegetable oil-based black printing ink specifically formulated for letterpress printing machines, used in high-volume commercial printing. It falls under HTS 3215.19.90.40 as a letterpress printing ink that is neither black nor other specified colors. This classification distinguishes it from offset or flexographic inks due to its compatibility with letterpress relief printing processes.
Duty Rate — China → United States
39.3%
Rate breakdown
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)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Verify ink formulation meets EPA VOC emission standards and provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for customs clearance
• Label packages with exact color, base (soy/vegetable), and 'for letterpress use only' to avoid reclassification