HS Code for Palmitic acid
Palmitic acid, also known as hexadecanoic acid, is a saturated long-chain fatty acid classified under Chapter 29 of the Harmonized System, which encompasses organic chemicals. Specifically, heading 2915 covers saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids and their derivatives. Subheading 2915.70 is dedicated to palmitic acid, stearic acid, and their respective salts and esters. This classification is determined by the chemical purity and molecular structure of the substance. For a product to be classified here, it must generally be a separate chemically defined compound, typically with a purity level exceeding 90 percent. Palmitic acid is naturally occurring in various fats and oils but is isolated for industrial, pharmaceutical, and laboratory use. The classification remains consistent whether the acid is in its pure form or as a salt or ester derivative, provided it meets the criteria for organic chemicals under Chapter 29. This code ensures that pure chemical substances are distinguished from industrial mixtures or crude oils found in other chapters.
Products Included
- Pure palmitic acid (hexadecanoic acid)
- Sodium palmitate (salt of palmitic acid)
- Methyl palmitate (ester of palmitic acid)
- Ethyl palmitate
- Potassium palmitate
- Palmitic acid salts for laboratory use
Common Misclassification
Palmitic acid is frequently confused with industrial fatty acid mixtures classified under HS code 3823.19. While 2915.70 is for chemically defined compounds, 3823.19 covers industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids that are mixtures of various chain lengths. Additionally, it may be confused with crude palm oil under heading 1511, which is the raw source material but lacks the chemical isolation required for Chapter 29.
FAQ
What is the HS code for palmitic acid?
The HS code for palmitic acid, its salts, and its esters is 2915.70.
How does purity affect the classification of palmitic acid?
High-purity palmitic acid (usually above 90%) is classified in 2915.70 as a separate chemically defined compound, whereas lower-purity industrial grades or mixtures are classified under 3823.19.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Palmitic acid?
The HS code for Palmitic acid is 291570 (Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; palmitic acid, stearic acid, their salts and esters).
How do I classify Palmitic acid for customs?
Palmitic acid is classified under HS code 291570 — Acids; saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids; palmitic acid, stearic acid, their salts and esters. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Palmitic acid the same in all countries?
The base HS code 291570 for Palmitic 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.