HS Code for Anionic surfactant
Anionic surfactants are classified under HS code 3402.39 when they are organic surface-active agents (other than soap) that do not fall under the specific subheadings for linear alkylbenzene sulphonic acids (LAS) and their salts. These chemicals are characterized by a negatively charged hydrophilic group. They are widely used in industrial and household cleaning formulations due to their ability to reduce surface tension and emulsify fats. Classification depends on the chemical structure of the active agent and whether the product is presented as a pure substance, a mixture, or a preparation put up for retail sale. To fall under 3402.39, the substance must exhibit surface-active properties, meaning it must be capable of forming a monomolecular layer at the air-water interface and reducing the surface tension of water to a specific level (usually 45 mN/m or less) at a concentration of 0.5% at 20 degrees Celsius. This specific subheading is a residual category for anionic agents that are not the more common linear alkylbenzene sulphonates.
Products Included
- Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES)
- Alpha olefin sulfonates (AOS)
- Secondary alkane sulfonates (SAS)
- Fatty alcohol sulfates
- Anionic emulsifiers for industrial use
- Sulfosuccinates used in detergents
Common Misclassification
The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 3402.31, which is specifically for linear alkylbenzene sulphonic acids and their salts. Importers often confuse these two because both are anionic surfactants. Additionally, if the surfactant is mixed with other ingredients and put up for retail sale as a finished detergent, it should be classified under 3402.50 or 3402.90 rather than the chemical-specific codes for surface-active agents.
FAQ
What is the HS code for anionic surfactant?
The HS code for anionic organic surface-active agents (excluding LAS) is 3402.39.
Does this code include common household soap?
No, soap is specifically classified under heading 3401. Heading 3402 is reserved for synthetic organic surface-active agents and preparations.
Alternative HS Codes
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Anionic surfactant?
The HS code for Anionic surfactant is 340239 (Anionic organic surface-active agents (other than soap); other than linear alkylbenzene sulphonic acids and their salts, whether or not put up for retail sale).
How do I classify Anionic surfactant for customs?
Anionic surfactant is classified under HS code 340239 — Anionic organic surface-active agents (other than soap); other than linear alkylbenzene sulphonic acids and their salts, whether or not put up for retail sale. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Anionic surfactant the same in all countries?
The base HS code 340239 for Anionic surfactant is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.