HS 340231 Anionic organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale
Quick Answer: Anionic organic surface-active agents imported under HS 340231 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.00%, and the US at 3.7% under the MFN rate, with certain preferential trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This HS code covers substances that reduce the surface tension of liquids, primarily used as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, and foaming agents. These are typically organic compounds that possess both a water-attracting (hydrophilic) and an oil-attracting (hydrophobic) part, with the hydrophilic part carrying a negative charge. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific trade agreements and ensure accurate product descriptions for customs declarations. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402310000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402310000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 340231 | — | — | — |
| 3402319000 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3402311000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 3402.31?
Imports of Anionic organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 340231 cover?
This subheading covers anionic organic surface-active agents, which are chemical compounds that reduce the surface tension of liquids, making them effective in cleaning and emulsifying. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes substances like soaps and synthetic detergents that are anionic in nature. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further define these as organic compounds with at least one hydrophilic (water-attracting) group and one lipophilic (oil-attracting) group, where the hydrophilic group is an anionic radical, such as a carboxylate, sulfate, or sulfonate group. These are often sold in bulk or for industrial use, but also include those prepared for retail sale.
What falls outside HS 340231?
The following products are excluded from HS 340231: cationic, non-ionic, and amphoteric surface-active agents, which have different charge characteristics. For instance, quaternary ammonium compounds, which are cationic, are classified elsewhere. Similarly, products that are primarily soaps derived from animal or vegetable fats and oils, even if anionic, may fall under HS 3401 if they are in solid form and not specifically prepared as surface-active agents. Also excluded are finished cleaning preparations, such as laundry detergents or dishwashing liquids, which are typically classified under HS 340290 if they are mixtures, or under specific headings if they are formulated products with other primary functions.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 340231?
A common error is misinterpreting the "anionic" characteristic, leading to the classification of non-anionic surface-active agents under this code. For example, classifying non-ionic ethoxylates, which are very common, under 340231 would be incorrect. Another mistake involves confusing bulk anionic surface-active agents with finished cleaning products. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also overlook the "whether or not put up for retail sale" clause, incorrectly excluding retail-packaged goods.
How should importers classify products under HS 340231?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 340231 involves a detailed examination of the product's chemical composition and its intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the primary function of the substance, confirming it is an organic surface-active agent. Next, they must determine its anionic nature by analyzing the hydrophilic functional group. Consulting the official nomenclature, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial. If the product is a mixture, its classification will depend on the principal constituent or its essential character, following GIR 3.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 340231?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), a common anionic surface-active agent, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 340231. If the product were sold by weight, a specific duty rate would apply instead of ad valorem.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 340231?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 340231, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible developing countries. Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico may receive a duty rate of Free. For GSP beneficiaries, the rate can also be Free, depending on the specific country and product. To claim these preferential rates, a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A (or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the jurisdiction's requirements) is typically required to prove the origin of the goods.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 340231 (Anionic organic surface-active agents)?
The import duty rates for HS code 340231 vary significantly by country. For example, the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 4.00% ad valorem. In the EU, under TARIC, the rate is also 4.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff shows a rate of 3.7% ad valorem. Many countries, including Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR), offer preferential rates, often Free, under various trade agreements. However, some countries may impose higher rates, such as 25% in certain instances. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for HS code 340231 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 340231 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import anionic organic surface-active agents with a declared customs value of $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 4.00% (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the exact calculation method for the destination country.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 340231?
HS code 340323 covers 'Anionic organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale.' The primary classification criteria revolve around the substance's chemical nature and its surface-active properties. 'Anionic' refers to the surface-active agent having a negatively charged hydrophilic component in its molecule when dissolved in water. 'Organic' signifies that the molecule contains carbon. 'Surface-active' means the substance reduces the surface tension of a liquid or the interfacial tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. The product must meet these chemical and functional definitions. Products not meeting these criteria, such as non-ionic or cationic surfactants, would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing anionic organic surface-active agents under HS code 340231?
Standard import documentation for HS code 340231 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the product, additional documentation may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or a technical data sheet to confirm the chemical composition and properties, especially if regulatory or safety assessments are needed. Importers should always confirm specific requirements with customs authorities or their customs broker.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 340231?
Several major trade agreements facilitate preferential duty rates for HS code 340231. For instance, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides reduced or Free rates between these North American countries. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and similar agreements involving countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), Japan (JP), and Singapore (SG) typically offer preferential treatment. The EU's network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea (KR) and Mexico (MX) also often includes provisions for reduced duties on chemical products. To benefit, importers must ensure compliance with the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin.