HS Code Subheading

Acids; carboxylic acids, (with phenol function but without other oxygen function), salicylic acid and its salts

2918.21 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 291821

This HS code covers salicylic acid and its various salts, which are fundamental compounds in international trade for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. Salicylic acid is highly valued for its keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, making it a key ingredient in acne treatments, exfoliants, and certain medications. Its salts, such as sodium salicylate, also possess therapeutic applications. Trade primarily involves pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic manufacturers, and chemical suppliers globally. Key considerations include stringent purity standards for medical and cosmetic applications, compliance with regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, EMA), and the diverse range of end-products that rely on this versatile chemical, from skincare to pain relief.

Products Under This Code

Salicylic acid powder, Sodium salicylate, Magnesium salicylate, Choline salicylate, Salicylic acid solutions, Salicylic acid crystals

Real World Examples

Neutrogena (acne products), The Ordinary (skincare), Bayer (Aspirin precursor)

Common Misclassification

It can be confused with o-acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) in 2918.22 if the 'acetyl' group is overlooked, or with other phenolic compounds in Chapter 29 if the carboxylic acid function is not clearly identified.

Products Classified Under 2918.21

Salicylic acid

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 2918.15 Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), salts and esters of 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 2918.22 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

China is a dominant producer, while the USA, Germany, and India are major importers and consumers due to their strong pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 291821?

HS code 291821 covers: Acids; carboxylic acids, (with phenol function but without other oxygen function), salicylic acid and its salts. This HS code covers salicylic acid and its various salts, which are fundamental compounds in international trade for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. Salicylic acid is highly valued for its keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, making it a key ingredient in acne treatments, exfoliants, and certain medications. Its salts, such as sodium salicylate, also possess therapeutic applications. Trade primarily involves pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic manufacturers, and chemical suppliers globally. Key considerations include stringent purity standards for medical and cosmetic applications, compliance with regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, EMA), and the diverse range of end-products that rely on this versatile chemical, from skincare to pain relief.

What products fall under HS code 291821?

Salicylic acid powder, Sodium salicylate, Magnesium salicylate, Choline salicylate, Salicylic acid solutions, Salicylic acid crystals

What are common misclassifications for HS code 291821?

It can be confused with o-acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) in 2918.22 if the 'acetyl' group is overlooked, or with other phenolic compounds in Chapter 29 if the carboxylic acid function is not clearly identified.

How is HS code 291821 structured?

HS code 291821 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 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.