HS Code for Gluconic acid
Gluconic acid and its derivatives are classified under HS code 2918.16. This code is situated within Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2918 is reserved for carboxylic acids with additional oxygen functions and their derivatives. Gluconic acid is a carboxylic acid that also contains alcohol functional groups (specifically, it is a pentahydroxyhexanoic acid), placing it firmly within this heading. The subheading 2918.16 is a specific provision for gluconic acid, its salts (such as sodium or calcium gluconate), and its esters. The classification is determined by the chemical structure of the molecule. As an organic compound produced typically through the enzymatic oxidation of glucose, it is treated as a distinct chemical entity for customs purposes. The inclusion of salts and esters in the same subheading simplifies the classification of common industrial derivatives. Sodium gluconate, for instance, is widely used as a chelating agent in industrial cleaning and as a concrete retarder in construction. Calcium gluconate is a common mineral supplement. Because these are salts of the parent acid, they do not move to other chapters but remain within the specific chemical designation of 2918.16, provided they are not put up in measured doses for retail sale as medicaments.
Products Included
- Pure gluconic acid solution
- Sodium gluconate (industrial grade)
- Calcium gluconate (bulk powder)
- Potassium gluconate
- Glucono-delta-lactone (GDL)
- Magnesium gluconate
Common Misclassification
Gluconic acid is sometimes confused with other hydroxy-acids like lactic acid (2918.11) or citric acid (2918.14). While they share similar functional groups, the carbon chain length and specific structure differ. Another common error is classifying gluconates as medicaments under 3004 if they are intended for health use. However, unless they are in measured doses or retail packaging for therapeutic use, they must remain in 2918.16 as separate chemically defined compounds.
FAQ
What is the HS code for gluconic acid?
The HS code for gluconic acid, as well as its salts and esters, is 2918.16.
Is sodium gluconate classified under the same code?
Yes, sodium gluconate is a salt of gluconic acid and is specifically included in the subheading 2918.16 along with the acid itself.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Gluconic acid?
The HS code for Gluconic acid is 291816 (Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), gluconic acid, its salts and esters).
How do I classify Gluconic acid for customs?
Gluconic acid is classified under HS code 291816 — Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), gluconic acid, its salts and esters. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Gluconic acid the same in all countries?
The base HS code 291816 for Gluconic acid is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.