Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Powder from China
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.
Duty Rate — China → United States
41.2%
Rate breakdown
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)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Verify surfactant type via lab analysis to confirm anionic classification under 3402; misclassification as soap leads to 3401
• Provide technical data sheets showing surface tension reduction <45 dyne/cm per Chapter Note 2 to avoid scrutiny
• Ensure bulk packaging documentation; retail-ready packs may shift to consumer product headings like 3402.50