Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA) from China
LABSA is a primary anionic surfactant used in detergent manufacturing, providing excellent cleaning and emulsifying action. It satisfies the surface-active agent test in Chapter Note 2 by forming stable emulsions and reducing water surface tension. Falls under 3402.39.90.50 as other anionic agents beyond retail soap forms.
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
• Include Safety Data Sheets (SDS) confirming anionic structure and non-soap status for CBP review
• Avoid retail labeling to prevent reclassification; bulk drums maintain 3402 industrial chemical status
• Test for purity levels; neutralized forms may qualify as soap under 3401