Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) from China
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is an anionic surfactant consisting of salts of sulfated polyethers, commonly used in shampoos and body washes for foaming and cleansing. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension in water solutions. Classified under HTS 3402.39.90.20 as salts of sulfated polyethers, other than soap.
Duty Rate — China → United States
38.7%
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
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 surfactant meets 0.5% water test for surface tension reduction per Chapter Note to confirm anionic classification
• Provide Certificates of Analysis (CoA) showing chemical composition as sulfated polyether salts to avoid misclassification
• Ensure labeling distinguishes from soap-based products excluded under heading 3401