About HS Code 340420
This code covers artificial and prepared waxes consisting of poly(oxyethylene), commonly known as polyethylene glycol (PEG) waxes. These synthetic waxes are highly versatile, finding extensive use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care products, and various industrial applications. PEG waxes are valued for their water solubility, low toxicity, and ability to act as binders, emulsifiers, humectants, and thickeners. International trade involves chemical manufacturers supplying pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic formulators, and industrial producers worldwide. Importers often seek specific molecular weights of PEG waxes to achieve desired product properties, while exporters benefit from large-scale chemical synthesis capabilities. Key considerations include purity, molecular weight distribution, and compliance with industry-specific regulations (e.g., pharmacopoeia standards).
Products Under This Code
Polyethylene glycol 4000, PEG 6000 wax, Carbowax Sentry, Macrogol, Polyethylene glycol stearate, PEG-based emulsifiers
Real World Examples
Dow Carbowax, BASF Pluracol, Croda Crodacol, Clariant Genapol, Sasol Sasolwax
Common Misclassification
These waxes can be confused with other artificial waxes (340490) or even natural waxes (Chapter 15) due to their waxy appearance, but their specific chemical composition as poly(oxyethylene) is the defining characteristic.
Products Classified Under 3404.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
China, Germany, and the United States are major producers and exporters, with global pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries being primary importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 340420?
HS code 340420 covers: Waxes; artificial and prepared, of poly(oxyethylene) (polyethylene glycol). This code covers artificial and prepared waxes consisting of poly(oxyethylene), commonly known as polyethylene glycol (PEG) waxes. These synthetic waxes are highly versatile, finding extensive use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care products, and various industrial applications. PEG waxes are valued for their water solubility, low toxicity, and ability to act as binders, emulsifiers, humectants, and thickeners. International trade involves chemical manufacturers supplying pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic formulators, and industrial producers worldwide. Importers often seek specific molecular weights of PEG waxes to achieve desired product properties, while exporters benefit from large-scale chemical synthesis capabilities. Key considerations include purity, molecular weight distribution, and compliance with industry-specific regulations (e.g., pharmacopoeia standards).
What products fall under HS code 340420?
Polyethylene glycol 4000, PEG 6000 wax, Carbowax Sentry, Macrogol, Polyethylene glycol stearate, PEG-based emulsifiers
What are common misclassifications for HS code 340420?
These waxes can be confused with other artificial waxes (340490) or even natural waxes (Chapter 15) due to their waxy appearance, but their specific chemical composition as poly(oxyethylene) is the defining characteristic.
How is HS code 340420 structured?
HS code 340420 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (34) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.