Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (DDBSA) from Mexico
DDBSA is a modified aromatic anionic surfactant used in heavy-duty industrial cleaners, emulsifiers, and agricultural formulations. Its aromatic benzene ring modified with a long alkyl chain and sulfonic group places it under HTS 3402.39.10.00 as it forms stable emulsions and reduces surface tension per Chapter note 2. Commonly imported in ISO-tanks for detergent manufacturing.
Duty Rate — Mexico → United States
14%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
Import Tips
• Classify based on chain length (C12 typical); longer chains may affect purity specs
• Ensure containers are acid-resistant; common pitfall is corrosion damage claims
• Document surfactant assay >96% to distinguish from diluted preparations