Cetrimonium Chloride Surfactant from Japan
Cetrimonium chloride is a cationic organic surface-active agent used in hair conditioners and fabric softeners for its conditioning properties. It meets the Chapter 34 definition by forming stable emulsions in water and reducing surface tension below 45 dyne/cm. Classified under 3402.41.90.00 as a non-soap cationic surfactant not put up for retail sale.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
14%
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
Import Tips
• Verify surface-active properties via lab testing (0.5% solution test for emulsion stability and surface tension ≤45 dyne/cm)
• Provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and confirm cationic nature through chemical analysis for CBP review
• Avoid misclassification as soap by proving water-solubility differences per Chapter Note to 3401