HS 382312 Oleic acid
Quick Answer: Oleic acid imported under HS 382312 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.50% ad valorem, and the US at 6.6¢/kg + 20% under the MFN rate. This code covers "Oleic acid, not chemically modified," which is a monounsaturated fatty acid commonly derived from animal fats and vegetable oils. It is widely used in industrial applications such as soaps, detergents, lubricants, and cosmetics. Importers should be aware of potential specific country-of-origin requirements or preferential duty rates that may apply, as detailed on platforms like CustomTariffs, which aggregates this trade data.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823120020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823120070 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823120050 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823120080 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823120000 | 4.50 % | — | — |
| 3823120020 | 4.50 % | — | — |
| 3823120070 | 4.50 % | — | — |
| 3823120050 | 4.50 % | — | — |
| 3823120080 | 4.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823120000 | 2.1¢/kg + 3.2% | 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 3823.12?
Imports of Oleic acid 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 382312 cover?
This subheading covers oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated fatty acid with the formula C18H34O2. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, it is a specific type of "prepared binders for foundry moulds of an inorganic nature" and is also a "fatty acid and its acid esters, salts and other derivatives." In the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), it is defined as "Oleic acid." The European Union's TARIC system also classifies pure oleic acid under this code, typically when it is not further processed or mixed.
What falls outside HS 382312?
The following products are excluded from HS 382312: mixtures of fatty acids where oleic acid is not the predominant component, other individual fatty acids not specified, and products derived from oleic acid such as soaps or esters that are specifically classified elsewhere. For instance, soaps derived from oleic acid would fall under HS code 3401, and certain oleic acid esters used as lubricants might be classified under Chapter 27 or 29 depending on their specific chemical structure and intended use. Crude vegetable oils containing oleic acid are also classified separately.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 382312?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures of fatty acids as pure oleic acid. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) mandates classification based on the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product is a mixture of fatty acids, and oleic acid is not the sole or predominant component, it may fall under a more general heading for fatty acids or their mixtures, such as 3823.90. Importers must carefully review the composition and purity of the product to ensure accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 382312?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 382312 involves obtaining a detailed technical specification sheet from the supplier. This document should clearly state the chemical name, purity, and any other relevant characteristics of the substance. Importers and customs brokers should then consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, to verify that the product meets the definition of oleic acid under this specific subheading. Confirmation of the product's chemical identity is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 382312?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of refined oleic acid 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, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 3823.12.0000 (5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00). It is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable at the time of import, as these can change.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 382312?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 382312, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's requirements.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Oleic acid (HS 382312) into the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom?
The import duty rates for Oleic acid (HS 382312) vary by destination. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically 0.00% ad valorem, as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. For the European Union, the rate is also generally 0.00% ad valorem under the TARIC system. In the United Kingdom, the duty rate is also 0.00% ad valorem, as listed in the UK Trade Tariff. Always verify the specific rate applicable at the time of import, as these can change.
How is the duty calculated for Oleic acid if a specific rate like '6.6¢/kg + 20%' were applicable?
If a duty rate like '6.6¢/kg + 20% ad valorem' were applied to Oleic acid (HS 382312), the calculation would involve two components. First, a specific duty based on weight: 6.6 US cents per kilogram. Second, an ad valorem duty of 20% of the declared value of the goods. For example, if you imported 1,000 kg of Oleic acid with a declared value of $2,000 USD, the specific duty would be 1,000 kg * $0.066/kg = $66.00 USD. The ad valorem duty would be 20% of $2,000 USD = $400.00 USD. The total duty would be $66.00 + $400.00 = $466.00 USD. Note that this is a hypothetical example; current rates for HS 382312 are typically 0%.
What are the classification criteria for Oleic acid under HS code 382312?
HS code 382312 specifically covers 'Oleic acid'. This classification applies to oleic acid that is either refined or not refined, as well as its mixtures. It is important to ensure the product is indeed oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid with the formula C18H34O2, and not a different fatty acid or a more complex mixture of oils and fats that might fall under other headings. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides explanatory notes that can assist in confirming classification.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Oleic acid (HS 382312) into the US, EU, or UK?
While the standard MFN duty rates for HS 382312 into the US, EU, and UK are often 0.00%, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can still be relevant for other HS codes or in specific circumstances. For example, the US has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), and South Korea (KR) which might offer preferential treatment. The EU has agreements with numerous countries and blocs, and the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant trade agreement to confirm eligibility for preferential rates, which typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin.
What documentation is typically required when importing Oleic acid (HS 382312)?
Standard import documentation for Oleic acid (HS 382312) generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific trade agreement being utilized, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. For certain applications or if specific purity standards are claimed, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer might also be necessary. Customs brokers should be consulted for the most up-to-date and country-specific documentation requirements.