Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA) from Mexico
LABSA is a synthetic anionic surfactant with an aromatic structure, widely used as the primary active ingredient in liquid laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids. It qualifies under HTS 3402.39.10.00 as an aromatic organic surface-active agent due to its benzene ring backbone and sulfonic acid group, meeting the surface tension reduction test in Chapter 34 note 2. Typically supplied in bulk as a viscous brown liquid for industrial formulation.
Duty Rate — Mexico → United States
Rate breakdown
Import Tips
• Verify purity and active matter content via lab analysis to confirm classification as a pure surfactant rather than a finished preparation
• Obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensure proper hazardous material declaration for acidic liquid shipments
• Avoid misclassification as soap by confirming water solubility test per Chapter 34 note 1