HS Code for Sodium benzoate
Sodium benzoate is classified under HS code 2916.31 because it is a salt of benzoic acid, which is an aromatic monocarboxylic acid. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) and the Chapter 29 notes of the Harmonized System, organic chemicals that are separate chemically defined compounds are classified here. Heading 2916 specifically covers unsaturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids, cyclic monocarboxylic acids, their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, and peroxyacids, as well as their derivatives. Since sodium benzoate is the sodium salt (a derivative) of benzoic acid, it is explicitly placed in the subheading 2916.31. This classification remains consistent regardless of whether the product is intended for use as a food preservative, a pharmaceutical excipient, or an industrial corrosion inhibitor, provided it meets the purity standards of a chemically defined compound.
Products Included
- Food grade sodium benzoate powder
- Industrial grade sodium benzoate granules
- Sodium salt of benzoic acid (C7H5NaO2)
- Preservative-grade sodium benzoate for beverages
- Technical grade sodium benzoate for anti-corrosive applications
Common Misclassification
Sodium benzoate is frequently misclassified under HS code 2915, which covers saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids like acetic acid. However, because benzoic acid contains a benzene ring, it is aromatic and must be classified under 2916. Another common error is attempting to classify it under 3824 as a prepared chemical mixture; this is incorrect if the product is a pure, chemically defined salt. Furthermore, it should not be confused with 2918, which is reserved for carboxylic acids with additional oxygen functions (like citric acid).
FAQ
What is the HS code for sodium benzoate?
The HS code for sodium benzoate is 2916.31, which specifically covers benzoic acid, its salts, and its esters.
Is sodium benzoate classified differently if used in cosmetics?
No, as long as it is a separate chemically defined compound, it remains under 2916.31. If it is part of a complex mixture of preservatives, it might move to Chapter 38.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Sodium benzoate?
The HS code for Sodium benzoate is 291631 (Acids; aromatic monocarboxylic acids, benzoic acid, its salts and esters).
How do I classify Sodium benzoate for customs?
Sodium benzoate is classified under HS code 291631 — Acids; aromatic monocarboxylic acids, benzoic acid, its salts and esters. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Sodium benzoate the same in all countries?
The base HS code 291631 for Sodium benzoate is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.