Sodium Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS)

AOS is a mild anionic surfactant derived from alpha olefins, ideal for high-foaming shampoos and dishwashing liquids. It complies with heading 3402 criteria by producing translucent solutions and low surface tension in water tests. Classified in 3402.39.90.50 for non-retail anionic surface-active agents.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China3.7%+35.0%38.7%
🇲🇽Mexico3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇨🇦Canada3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇩🇪Germany3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇯🇵Japan3.7%+10.0%13.7%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3402.50Lower: 10% vs 38.7%

If formulated into retail cleaning preparation

Prepared washing/cleaning products for retail fall under 3402.50, not pure agents.

2833.19.00.00Lower: 35% vs 38.7%

If classified primarily as sulfite salts

Inorganic sulfonates may shift to Chapter 28 if not meeting organic surface-active definition.

3403.19.50Higher: 40.8% vs 38.7%

If for industrial lubricant-containing preparations

Lubricant-based surface agents move to 3403 if containing petroleum oils per note.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Submit manufacturer's specs proving 0.5% water test compliance per Chapter Note 2

Declare as industrial intermediate; consumer-ready formulations risk moving to 3305/3402.50

Monitor for soap additives; added soap bases reclassify entire product to 3402.20

Related Products under HTS 3402.39.90.50

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Powder

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is an anionic surfactant commonly used in shampoos, body washes, and toothpastes for its foaming and cleansing properties. It meets the Chapter 34 definition for organic surface-active agents by reducing surface tension in water solutions to below 45 dyne/cm. Classified under 3402.39.90.50 as a non-soap anionic agent not put up for retail sale.

Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acid (LABSA)

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.

Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate Solution

This 28-30% active ammonium salt of lauryl sulfate serves as an anionic foaming agent in liquid soaps and shampoos. It forms stable emulsions without insoluble matter, qualifying under heading 3402 surface-active agents. HTS 3402.39.90.50 covers this other anionic form not for retail sale.

Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate

A high-performance anionic surfactant used in industrial cleaners and emulsifiers, known for wetting and dispersing properties. Meets precise Chapter 34 note 2 test for organic surface-active classification. 3402.39.90.50 applies to this non-retail, other anionic variant.

Ethylene Oxide Sodium Sulfate (ESB)

ESB, or sodium laureth sulfate, is an ethoxylated anionic surfactant for gentle foaming in personal care products. Its solution properties confirm surface-active status under heading 3402 definitions. Classified as other anionic agents in 3402.39.90.50 for bulk industrial supply.

Petroleum Sulfonate Anionic Surfactant

Derived from petroleum oils, this anionic sulfonate enhances oil recovery and metalworking fluids via emulsification. Qualifies per note 3 linking to Chapter 27 petroleum definitions, but as surface-active in 3402. 3402.39.90.50 for other non-soap forms.