HS Code for Mannitol

Mannitol is classified under HS code 2905.43 as a polyhydric alcohol. This classification is determined by the chemical structure of the substance, which is a sugar alcohol (polyol) derived from a sugar by reduction. Under the Harmonized System, Chapter 29 covers organic chemicals, and heading 2905 specifically addresses acyclic alcohols and their derivatives. Mannitol, being a hexahydric alcohol, fits precisely into the subheading 2905.43. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the mannitol is intended for use as a food additive, a pharmaceutical excipient, or a laboratory reagent, provided it meets the purity requirements for chemically defined organic compounds set forth in the General Explanatory Notes to Chapter 29. If the product is presented as a medicament in measured doses, it might shift chapters, but the bulk chemical substance is strictly 2905.43.

Products Included

• D-Mannitol in crystalline powder form
• Reagent grade mannitol for laboratory use
• Mannitol used as a sweetener or bulking agent in bulk industrial quantities
• USP/EP grade mannitol for pharmaceutical manufacturing

Common Misclassification

Mannitol is frequently misclassified under HS code 1702.90, which covers other sugars and sugar syrups. However, because mannitol is a polyhydric alcohol and not a carbohydrate in the traditional sense (it is a reduced sugar), it must be classified in Chapter 29. Another common error is using HS code 3824.99 for chemical mixtures; this only applies if the mannitol is part of a complex preparation that has lost the character of a pure chemical. Additionally, if mannitol is prepared as a diuretic injection, it is classified under 3004.90 rather than 2905.43.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Mannitol?

The primary HS code for pure, chemically defined mannitol is 2905.43.

Does the classification change if it is used in food?

No, as long as it is the pure chemical substance, it remains under 2905.43. If it is a food preparation containing mannitol and other ingredients, it may fall under Chapter 21.