HS Code Subheading

Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), salts and esters of citric acid

2918.15 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291815

This category covers the diverse salts and esters derived from citric acid, which are highly valued for their functional properties in various industries. Sodium citrate, potassium citrate, and calcium citrate are common examples, used as buffering agents, emulsifiers, and sequestrants in food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Citric acid esters, such as triethyl citrate or acetyl tributyl citrate, serve as plasticizers in plastics and coatings, and as solvents in cosmetics. Trade is driven by the demand for specialized additives that enhance product stability, texture, and shelf-life. Importers include food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and plastic manufacturers worldwide. Exporters are typically chemical producers specializing in food additives and specialty chemicals. Purity, specific functional attributes, and regulatory approvals for their intended use are crucial for international trade, ensuring compliance and market acceptance.

Products Under This Code

Sodium citrate, Potassium citrate, Calcium citrate, Triethyl citrate (TEC), Acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), Tributyl citrate (TBC), Monosodium citrate, Trisodium citrate

Real World Examples

Jungbunzlauer Sodium Citrate, ADM Potassium Citrate, Danisco Citrem, Vertellus ATBC, Merck Calcium Citrate

Common Misclassification

Often confused with 291814 (citric acid itself) if the specific salt or ester form is not clearly identified, or with 382499 (chemical products n.e.c.) if it's part of a complex formulated product.

Products Classified Under 2918.15

Citric acid saltsCitric acid esters

Related Codes

2918.11 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), lactic acid, its salts and esters 2918.12 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), tartaric acid 2918.13 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function); salts and esters of tartaric acid 2918.14 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), citric acid 2918.16 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), gluconic acid, its salts and esters 2918.17 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), 2,2-Diphenyl-2-hydroxyacetic acid (benzilic acid) 2918.18 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), chlorobenzilate (ISO) 2918.19 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), other than lactic, tartaric, citric, and gluconic acids and their salts and esters 2918.21 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with phenol function but without other oxygen function), salicylic acid and its salts 2918.22 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with phenol function but without other oxygen function), o-acetylsalicylic acid, its salts and esters

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

USA, Germany, and Japan are major importers, while China, Belgium, and the Netherlands are significant exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291815?

HS code 291815 covers: Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), salts and esters of citric acid. This category covers the diverse salts and esters derived from citric acid, which are highly valued for their functional properties in various industries. Sodium citrate, potassium citrate, and calcium citrate are common examples, used as buffering agents, emulsifiers, and sequestrants in food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Citric acid esters, such as triethyl citrate or acetyl tributyl citrate, serve as plasticizers in plastics and coatings, and as solvents in cosmetics. Trade is driven by the demand for specialized additives that enhance product stability, texture, and shelf-life. Importers include food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and plastic manufacturers worldwide. Exporters are typically chemical producers specializing in food additives and specialty chemicals. Purity, specific functional attributes, and regulatory approvals for their intended use are crucial for international trade, ensuring compliance and market acceptance.

What products fall under HS code 291815?

Sodium citrate, Potassium citrate, Calcium citrate, Triethyl citrate (TEC), Acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), Tributyl citrate (TBC), Monosodium citrate, Trisodium citrate

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291815?

Often confused with 291814 (citric acid itself) if the specific salt or ester form is not clearly identified, or with 382499 (chemical products n.e.c.) if it's part of a complex formulated product.

How is HS code 291815 structured?

HS code 291815 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (18) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (15) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.