HS Code for Carnauba wax

Carnauba wax is classified under HS code 1521.10. This code is part of Chapter 15, which covers animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products, including prepared edible fats and animal or vegetable waxes. Specifically, heading 1521 is reserved for vegetable waxes (other than triglycerides), beeswax, other insect waxes, and spermaceti, whether or not refined or colored. Carnauba wax, derived from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera palm native to Brazil, is a classic example of a vegetable wax. The classification applies to the wax in its raw state, as well as when it has been refined, bleached, or colored, provided it has not been chemically modified or mixed with other waxes to form a "prepared wax." Its high melting point and hardness make it a distinct commodity in international trade, used in everything from food coatings to automotive polishes. Under GRI 1, the classification is determined by the literal text of the heading. Since carnauba is a vegetable wax and not a fat or oil (triglyceride), it cannot be placed in 1515. Furthermore, as long as it remains a pure wax without additives like paraffin or synthetic resins, it stays within 1521.10 rather than moving to the industrial wax categories of Chapter 34. The chemical composition, consisting primarily of esters of fatty acids and fatty alcohols, distinguishes it from mineral waxes.

Products Included

• Raw carnauba wax lumps
• Refined carnauba wax flakes
• Powdered carnauba wax
• Bleached or colored carnauba wax
• T1, T3, and T4 grades of carnauba wax

Common Misclassification

Carnauba wax is often misclassified under 3404.90, which covers artificial or prepared waxes. If the carnauba wax is mixed with other substances (like solvents or other waxes) to create a polish, it moves to 3404 or 3405. It is also sometimes confused with 1515.90 (other fixed vegetable fats), but waxes are chemically distinct from fats.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Carnauba wax?

The specific HS code for carnauba wax, a vegetable wax, is 1521.10.

Is refined carnauba wax classified differently?

No, refining, bleaching, or coloring does not change the classification; it remains 1521.10 as long as it is not mixed with other materials.