HS Code for Castor oil

Castor oil is classified under HS code 151530. This heading covers fixed vegetable fats and oils and their fractions. Castor oil is unique due to its high ricinoleic acid content, which is extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. The classification applies to the oil whether it is crude, refined, or purified, provided that the chemical structure has not been modified. Processes such as degumming, neutralizing, bleaching, and deodorizing are permitted under this code. However, if the oil is hydrogenated, epoxidized, or otherwise chemically altered, it must be classified elsewhere. This oil is widely used in industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications, but the HS code remains consistent based on its vegetable origin and lack of chemical modification, following the rules of Chapter 15.

Products Included

• Crude castor oil (first pressing)
• Refined castor oil (BSS grade)
• Pharmaceutical grade castor oil (not put up as medicament)
• Pale pressed castor oil
• Fractions of castor oil, not chemically modified

Common Misclassification

Castor oil is frequently misclassified when it has undergone chemical processing. Hydrogenated castor oil (often called castor wax) is classified under 151620. Dehydrated castor oil, which is used in the paint industry, is classified under 151800 as an oxidized or modified oil. If the castor oil is put up in measured doses or packings for retail sale as a medicament (laxative), it may fall under 3004. Additionally, Turkey Red Oil (sulfonated castor oil) is classified under 3402 as a surface-active agent.

FAQ

What is the HS code for castor oil?

The HS code for castor oil and its fractions, whether or not refined but not chemically modified, is 151530.

Is hydrogenated castor oil included in this code?

No, hydrogenated castor oil is classified under HS code 151620 as it has undergone a specific chemical modification process.