About HS Code 152190
This HS code encompasses waxes of animal origin, such as beeswax and lanolin, as well as insect waxes, provided they are not specifically covered elsewhere in heading 1521 (i.e., not vegetable waxes). These waxes, whether refined or colored, are vital raw materials for a multitude of industries including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and industrial applications like polishes and lubricants. International trade in these waxes is significant, with demand driven by their unique natural properties, such as emulsifying capabilities, protective barriers, and texture enhancement. Importers are typically manufacturing companies in developed nations that integrate these natural ingredients into their product lines. Exporters often include countries with robust animal husbandry sectors or specific insect populations. Key considerations in this trade involve ensuring purity, meeting specific industry standards, and increasingly, adhering to ethical sourcing practices and sustainability guidelines.
Products Under This Code
Beeswax, Lanolin, Spermaceti, Shellac wax, Chinese insect wax, Wool wax
Real World Examples
Carmex lip balm, Honest Company products, Furniture polish, Pharmaceutical excipients
Common Misclassification
Often confused with 152110 (vegetable waxes) if the animal origin is not clearly specified, or with 3404 (artificial waxes) if synthetic alternatives are being considered.
Products Classified Under 1521.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Food & Beverages industry.
Trade Overview
China, Turkey, and Ethiopia are significant exporters of beeswax, with the US, Germany, and France being major importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 152190?
HS code 152190 covers: Waxes, other than vegetable, n.e.c. in heading no. 1521; whether or not refined or coloured. This HS code encompasses waxes of animal origin, such as beeswax and lanolin, as well as insect waxes, provided they are not specifically covered elsewhere in heading 1521 (i.e., not vegetable waxes). These waxes, whether refined or colored, are vital raw materials for a multitude of industries including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and industrial applications like polishes and lubricants. International trade in these waxes is significant, with demand driven by their unique natural properties, such as emulsifying capabilities, protective barriers, and texture enhancement. Importers are typically manufacturing companies in developed nations that integrate these natural ingredients into their product lines. Exporters often include countries with robust animal husbandry sectors or specific insect populations. Key considerations in this trade involve ensuring purity, meeting specific industry standards, and increasingly, adhering to ethical sourcing practices and sustainability guidelines.
What products fall under HS code 152190?
Beeswax, Lanolin, Spermaceti, Shellac wax, Chinese insect wax, Wool wax
What are common misclassifications for HS code 152190?
Often confused with 152110 (vegetable waxes) if the animal origin is not clearly specified, or with 3404 (artificial waxes) if synthetic alternatives are being considered.
How is HS code 152190 structured?
HS code 152190 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (15) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (21) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.