Cetyl Alcohol (Cetostearyl Alcohol Blend) from China
Cetyl alcohol, a C16 fatty alcohol mixture often blended with stearyl alcohol, is produced by reduction of palmitic/stearic acids from animal tallow or vegetable oils like coconut or palm. Classified under HTS 3823.70.40.00 as other industrial fatty alcohols from fatty substances of animal/vegetable origin, it's widely used as an emulsifier in pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
Duty Rate — China → United States
22%
Rate breakdown
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 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(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Provide fatty acid chain length analysis (C14-C18) and origin declaration to confirm 'other' fatty alcohol status
• Label as industrial grade only; consumer-ready cosmetic preparations may require different classification
• Check for Kosher/Halal certification if animal-derived to meet importer specifications and avoid disputes