HS Code for Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is classified under HS code 1515.90, which covers other fixed vegetable fats and oils and their fractions. Although jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax ester rather than a true triglyceride fat, the Harmonized System classifies it within Chapter 15 because it is a vegetable-derived lipid. Heading 1515 is a residual category for vegetable oils that are not specifically named in earlier headings (such as soy, olive, or palm oil). Subheading 1515.90 is used because jojoba is not explicitly listed as linseed, maize, castor, or sesame oil. To remain in this classification, the oil must be obtained through mechanical pressing or solvent extraction and may be refined, but it must not be chemically modified. If the oil undergoes hydrogenation or other chemical transformations, it would move to heading 1516.

Products Included

• Pure cold-pressed jojoba oil
• Refined jojoba oil (not chemically modified)
• Golden jojoba oil
• Decolorized jojoba oil
• Jojoba oil fractions

Common Misclassification

A frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 3301, which covers essential oils. Jojoba oil is a carrier oil or fixed oil, not an essential oil, as it is not volatile and is not obtained by steam distillation. Another common error is HS code 3823, which covers industrial fatty acids or acid oils from refining. If the jojoba oil is packaged as a finished cosmetic product with added fragrances or medicinal ingredients, it may be reclassified under 3304 (beauty or make-up preparations) or 3004 (medicaments).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Jojoba oil?

The HS code for pure or refined jojoba oil that has not been chemically modified is 1515.90.

Is jojoba oil classified as a wax?

While chemically a liquid wax, for customs purposes under the Harmonized System, it is classified as a fixed vegetable oil in Chapter 15.