Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Granules from China

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a semi-synthetic polysaccharide derivative used in pharmaceuticals for capsule shells and as a thickener. Classified under HTS 3913.90.20.90 as a modified natural polysaccharide in primary granular form. It qualifies due to its cellulose base and primary (non-formulated) state.

Duty Rate — China → United States

30.8%

Rate breakdown

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)
9903.03.030%Articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa)(ii) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter

Import Tips

Provide lab tests confirming >95% polysaccharide content to distinguish from synthetic polymers per subheading notes

Label as 'primary granules' not 'pharma excipient' to avoid end-use reclassification to medicaments