Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) from China
SLES is a widely used anionic surfactant derived from lauryl alcohol, providing rich foam in shampoos and body washes. It satisfies heading 3402 criteria by forming translucent emulsions and lowering water surface tension below 45 dyne/cm. Falls under 3402.90.10 as a synthetic detergent for personal care formulations.
Duty Rate — China → United States
38.8%
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 ethoxylation degree (e.g
• 2-3 moles) in technical specs to confirm as surface-active agent
• Avoid packaging confusion with finished shampoos, which go to 3405; bulk shipments require bulk certs
• Test for insolubles per Chapter note to prevent reclassification as non-qualifying preparation