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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
🇨🇳China5.8%+25.0%30.8%
🇲🇽Mexico5.8%5.8%
🇨🇦Canada5.8%5.8%
🇩🇪Germany5.8%5.8%
🇯🇵Japan5.8%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.

Not sure which classification is right?

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Import Tips & Compliance

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

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

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