Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES 70%) from China
SLES is an anionic surfactant derived from coconut oil, forming stable emulsions and reducing surface tension per heading 3402 criteria. Widely used in shampoos, body washes, and liquid soaps at 70% active concentration. Falls under 3402.49.90.00 as other organic surface-active agents for industrial use.
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 lab test results verifying 0.5% solution meets surface tension and emulsion stability requirements
• Label as non-hazardous if diluted; watch for drum packaging that might trigger bulk chemical rules
• Avoid classifying as finished shampoo to prevent shift to 3401 if soap content exceeds limits