HS Code Subheading

Acids; unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; oleic, linoleic or linolenic acids, their salts and esters

2916.15 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291615

This HS code encompasses oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids, along with their salts and esters, which are prominent unsaturated fatty acids derived primarily from natural oils and fats. These compounds are extensively traded for their diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial sectors. Importers include manufacturers of emulsifiers, lubricants, paints, and personal care products, as well as food processors. Exporters are typically countries with strong agricultural sectors producing oilseeds (e.g., palm, soybean, sunflower, rapeseed) and chemical companies specializing in oleochemicals. The trade is influenced by agricultural commodity prices, demand for bio-based products, and evolving consumer preferences for natural ingredients. Quality specifications, such as iodine value and purity, are critical in international transactions.

Products Under This Code

Oleic acid, sodium oleate, methyl oleate, linoleic acid, ethyl linoleate, alpha-linolenic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, potassium linoleate

Real World Examples

Croda (oleic acid derivatives), Wilmar International (fatty acids), KLK Oleo (linoleic acid), Cargill (oleic acid)

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with other fatty acids under 3823 (industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids) if they are mixtures or prepared industrial products, or with 1518 (chemically modified fats and oils). The distinction here is for specific pure unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their direct salts/esters.

Products Classified Under 2916.15

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Malaysia, Indonesia, and the USA are major exporters of these fatty acids and their derivatives, with widespread global import demand from various industrial sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291615?

HS code 291615 covers: Acids; unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; oleic, linoleic or linolenic acids, their salts and esters. This HS code encompasses oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids, along with their salts and esters, which are prominent unsaturated fatty acids derived primarily from natural oils and fats. These compounds are extensively traded for their diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial sectors. Importers include manufacturers of emulsifiers, lubricants, paints, and personal care products, as well as food processors. Exporters are typically countries with strong agricultural sectors producing oilseeds (e.g., palm, soybean, sunflower, rapeseed) and chemical companies specializing in oleochemicals. The trade is influenced by agricultural commodity prices, demand for bio-based products, and evolving consumer preferences for natural ingredients. Quality specifications, such as iodine value and purity, are critical in international transactions.

What products fall under HS code 291615?

Oleic acid, sodium oleate, methyl oleate, linoleic acid, ethyl linoleate, alpha-linolenic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, potassium linoleate

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291615?

This code can be confused with other fatty acids under 3823 (industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids) if they are mixtures or prepared industrial products, or with 1518 (chemically modified fats and oils). The distinction here is for specific pure unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their direct salts/esters.

How is HS code 291615 structured?

HS code 291615 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (16) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (15) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.