Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is an inert, viscoelastic polysaccharide derived from cellulose through etherification, widely used in pharmaceuticals for capsule shells and controlled-release formulations. Classified under HTS 3913.90.20 as a modified natural polysaccharide in primary form like powder or granules.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณChina5.8%+25.0%30.8%
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝMexico5.8%โ€”5.8%
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆCanada5.8%โ€”5.8%
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ชGermany5.8%โ€”5.8%
๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ตJapan5.8%โ€”5.8%

More Specific Codes

This product may fall under a more specific subheading:

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

3912.31.00Higher: 31.4% vs 30.8%

If unmodified or simple carboxymethylated cellulose

Carboxymethylcellulose and salts (not mixed ethers) are specifically in 3912.31, separate from other derivatives.

2940.00.60Same rate: 30.8%

If heavily chemically modified resembling sugars

Certain sugar ethers and derivatives shift to Chapter 29 for organic chemicals if not qualifying as polymers.

3506.91Lower: 12.1% vs 30.8%

If sold as adhesive preparation

Prepared binders like cellulose adhesives are in 3506, not primary polymers, based on end use.

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Import Tips & Compliance

โ€ข Provide lab analysis confirming >95% cellulose-derived content to meet subheading note (a)(1) for polymer purity

โ€ข Label shipments clearly as 'primary forms' to distinguish from finished dosage forms in Chapter 30

โ€ข Avoid misclassification by ensuring no plasticizers exceed levels that trigger 3920.43 provisions