Cetyl Alcohol (Cetostearyl Alcohol Blend) from Mexico
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 — Mexico → United States
12%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
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