Stearyl Alcohol (Octadecanol) from Mexico
Stearyl alcohol, or 1-octadecanol, is a saturated C18 fatty alcohol obtained by hydrogenation of stearic acid from animal fats or vegetable sources like shea butter. It qualifies for HTS 3823.70.40.00 as an other industrial fatty alcohol derived from animal/vegetable fatty substances, commonly employed in industrial lubricants and polymer additives.
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
• Submit GC-MS analysis proving C18 chain predominance and natural fatty substance derivation
• Avoid packaging suggesting retail cosmetic use, which could trigger reclassification to Chapter 34
• Monitor EU REACH Annex XVII restrictions on animal-derived substances for downstream compliance