High Impact Polystyrene Resin (HIPS) from Mexico
High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a copolymer of styrene and butadiene, with butadiene content typically under 5% by weight, making it a polystyrene under HTS 3903.19.00.00 as it does not meet specific copolymer subheadings. It is supplied in primary pellet form for injection molding into durable consumer goods like toys and appliance housings.
Duty Rate — Mexico → United States
16.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
Import Tips
• Verify monomer composition via lab testing to confirm styrene units exceed 95% by weight for proper classification under 3903.19
• Include supplier certificates of analysis (COA) documenting polymer structure to avoid reclassification as copolymers
• Watch for common pitfalls like mislabeling blends, which could shift to 3901 or 3903.20 subheadings