Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) from Japan
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.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• 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