HS Code for Linolenic acid
Linolenic acid is classified under HS code 2916.15 because it is an unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acid. Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System covers organic chemicals, and heading 2916 specifically addresses unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, their cyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids. Linolenic acid (C18H30O2) is an essential fatty acid found in many vegetable oils. For classification purposes, the product must be a chemically defined organic compound. If the acid is part of a crude vegetable oil mixture, it would be classified in Chapter 15. However, when isolated as a specific acid, salt, or ester, it falls under 2916.15. This sub-heading specifically groups oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids together due to their similar chemical structures as 18-carbon unsaturated fatty acids. The classification includes alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), provided they meet the purity requirements for Chapter 29. The salts and esters of these acids, such as ethyl linolenate, are also included here. This classification is vital for chemical manufacturers and distributors who trade high-purity fatty acids for pharmaceutical, nutritional, or industrial applications. The General Interpretative Rules (GIR) 1 and 6 are applied to determine this specific code based on the chemical composition and the hierarchical structure of the nomenclature.
Products Included
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
- Ethyl linolenate
- Methyl linolenate
- Salts of linolenic acid (e.g., sodium linolenate)
Common Misclassification
Linolenic acid is frequently confused with HS code 1515.19, which covers linseed oil and its fractions. The distinction lies in the level of processing; Chapter 15 covers oils, while Chapter 29 covers isolated, chemically defined acids. It is also sometimes misclassified under 3823.19, which covers industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids. Heading 3823 is used for mixtures of fatty acids, whereas 2916 is reserved for high-purity, single-component acids.
FAQ
What is the HS code for linolenic acid?
The HS code for linolenic acid, its salts, and its esters is 2916.15.
Does this code include linseed oil?
No, linseed oil is classified under heading 1515. HS code 2916.15 is only for the isolated fatty acid and its chemical derivatives.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Linolenic acid?
The HS code for Linolenic acid is 291615 (Acids; unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; oleic, linoleic or linolenic acids, their salts and esters).
How do I classify Linolenic acid for customs?
Linolenic acid is classified under HS code 291615 — Acids; unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; oleic, linoleic or linolenic acids, their salts and esters. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Linolenic acid the same in all countries?
The base HS code 291615 for Linolenic 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.