HS 291816 Gluconic acid, its salts and esters

The MFN duty rates for HS 2918.16 vary significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 'Free' duty rate (0.00% ad valorem) under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for this subheading. In contrast, the European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty rate of 6.50% ad valorem for imports from most third countries. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 6.50% ad valorem duty rate. Importers should always verify the specific MFN rate applicable to their destination country using official tariff databases like the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.

Yes, preferential duty rates are widely available for HS 2918.16, often resulting in duty-free entry, depending on the country of origin and the importing country. For example, the United States grants duty-free treatment (0.00% ad valorem) to imports from numerous countries under various trade agreements and preference programs, including but not limited to Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Similarly, the EU and UK offer preferential rates under their respective trade agreements (e.g., GSP, FTAs). Importers should consult the rules of origin for specific agreements to determine eligibility and ensure proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, is provided to claim preferential treatment.

HS 2918.16 covers 'Gluconic acid, its salts and esters'. The classification hinges on the chemical identity of the substance. 'Gluconic acid' refers to the free acid form (C6H12O7). 'Salts' of gluconic acid are formed when the carboxylic acid group reacts with a base, such as sodium gluconate, calcium gluconate, or potassium gluconate. 'Esters' are derivatives formed from gluconic acid and an alcohol, such as glucono delta-lactone (GDL), which is a cyclic ester of gluconic acid. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 29 provide guidance that derivatives of organic acids, such as salts and esters, generally follow the classification of the parent acid, provided they retain the essential character. Laboratory analysis (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography) may be required to confirm the exact chemical composition if there is any ambiguity.

Standard import documentation for HS 2918.16 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For chemical products, additional documentation is often required or recommended. This may include a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to provide information on the substance's properties and handling. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., NAFTA/USMCA Certificate, EUR.1, or self-certification by the exporter) is mandatory. Depending on the end-use or specific regulations of the importing country, permits or licenses from health, food, or environmental agencies might also be necessary, especially if the product is intended for pharmaceutical, food, or cosmetic applications.

Yes, numerous bilateral and multilateral trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS 2918.16. For imports into the United States, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), KORUS FTA (Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement), and various other FTAs with countries such as Australia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Singapore typically grant duty-free access. For the European Union, agreements like the EU-Japan EPA, EU-South Korea FTA, and various Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) arrangements can provide preferential or zero duties. Similarly, the UK has its own network of trade agreements (e.g., with Japan, Canada, Australia) that offer preferential treatment. Importers should identify the specific agreement applicable to their trade lane and ensure compliance with the respective rules of origin to benefit from reduced or zero duties.