About HS Code 290544
Sorbitol, also known as D-glucitol, is a widely traded sugar alcohol (polyhydric alcohol) with significant global demand due to its versatility as a sweetener, humectant, and bulking agent. Its international trade is primarily driven by the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Food manufacturers use it in sugar-free products, confectionery, and baked goods, while pharmaceutical companies utilize it as an excipient and laxative. Cosmetic producers incorporate it for its moisturizing properties. Key exporters are large chemical and food ingredient suppliers, with importers being major food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and personal care product manufacturers. Traders must be aware of its various forms (liquid solution, crystalline powder) and grades (e.g., food grade, pharmaceutical grade), ensuring compliance with international food safety and pharmaceutical standards. Price and supply are often influenced by the availability of glucose, its primary raw material.
Products Under This Code
Sorbitol solution, Crystalline sorbitol, Sorbitol powder, Sorbitol syrup, Sorbitol excipient
Real World Examples
Roquette Sorbitol, Cargill Sorbitol, ADM Sorbitol, Ingredion Sorbitol
Common Misclassification
Sorbitol is frequently confused with other sugar alcohols, particularly mannitol (290543), due to their similar chemical nature and applications. The key distinction lies in their specific stereoisomeric structures and slightly different functional properties, requiring precise chemical identification to prevent misclassification.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, the USA, and European Union countries are major global traders of sorbitol, both as significant producers and consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 290544?
HS code 290544 covers: Alcohols; polyhydric, d-glucitol (sorbitol). Sorbitol, also known as D-glucitol, is a widely traded sugar alcohol (polyhydric alcohol) with significant global demand due to its versatility as a sweetener, humectant, and bulking agent. Its international trade is primarily driven by the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Food manufacturers use it in sugar-free products, confectionery, and baked goods, while pharmaceutical companies utilize it as an excipient and laxative. Cosmetic producers incorporate it for its moisturizing properties. Key exporters are large chemical and food ingredient suppliers, with importers being major food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and personal care product manufacturers. Traders must be aware of its various forms (liquid solution, crystalline powder) and grades (e.g., food grade, pharmaceutical grade), ensuring compliance with international food safety and pharmaceutical standards. Price and supply are often influenced by the availability of glucose, its primary raw material.
What products fall under HS code 290544?
Sorbitol solution, Crystalline sorbitol, Sorbitol powder, Sorbitol syrup, Sorbitol excipient
What are common misclassifications for HS code 290544?
Sorbitol is frequently confused with other sugar alcohols, particularly mannitol (290543), due to their similar chemical nature and applications. The key distinction lies in their specific stereoisomeric structures and slightly different functional properties, requiring precise chemical identification to prevent misclassification.
How is HS code 290544 structured?
HS code 290544 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (44) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.