Find HS Code and trade information for sanitary pad

Sanitary Pad

A sanitary pad, also known as a menstrual pad, is an absorbent article worn by women during menstruation to absorb menstrual flow. They are typically worn externally, adhering to undergarments.

Material:

• Absorbent Core: Traditionally composed of wood pulp, rayon, or cotton. Modern pads often incorporate superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) – materials that can absorb many times their weight in liquid – for increased capacity and thinner designs.
• Cover Sheet: Typically made of polypropylene or polyethylene, providing a waterproof barrier.
• Backing Sheet: Often polyethylene, offering a leak-proof layer.
• Adhesive: Used to secure the pad to the underwear, commonly utilizing acrylic-based adhesives. Some pads utilize a full-coverage adhesive, while others have wings with adhesive strips.
• Other Components: May include fragrance, lotions, or dyes.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a sanitary pad is to provide hygiene and comfort during menstruation by absorbing menstrual blood and preventing leakage onto clothing and bedding.

Function:

Sanitary pads function by utilizing the absorbent core to draw menstrual fluid away from the body. The waterproof cover sheet prevents leakage, while the adhesive secures the pad in place. The shape and design are optimized for comfort and effective absorption.

Usage Scenarios:

• Menstruation: The most common use.
• Postpartum Bleeding: Used to manage lochia (postpartum vaginal discharge).
• Urinary Incontinence: Some pads are specifically designed for light bladder leakage.
• Vaginal Discharge: Used for managing heavier than usual vaginal discharge.

Common Types:

• Regular Pads: Standard absorbency for moderate flow.
• Super Pads: Higher absorbency for heavier flow.
• Ultra/Overnight Pads: Maximum absorbency, often longer and wider for nighttime use.
• Thin/Light Pads: Lower absorbency for lighter flow days or as a backup with a tampon or menstrual cup.
• Winged Pads: Feature wings that fold around the sides of underwear for added security and leak prevention.
• Wingless Pads: Traditional design without wings.
• Reusable Cloth Pads: Made from washable fabrics like cotton or bamboo, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
• Organic Pads: Made from organic cotton and other natural materials, minimizing exposure to synthetic chemicals.
• Pads with Applicators: Some pads are individually wrapped with applicators for ease of use.
• Anion Pads: Contain anion chips, marketed for odor control and antibacterial properties (efficacy is debated).

Sanitary pads, also known as towels, are absorbent articles used for feminine hygiene during menstruation. They are designed to be worn externally and absorb menstrual flow. Diapers (napkins) and diaper liners fall under the same classification.

The following HS codes are relevant to sanitary pads, based on the provided information:

• 9619000500: This HS code covers sanitary pads (towels) and tampons, diapers (napkins), diaper liners and similar articles made of plastics.

  • 96: Chapter 96 covers miscellaneous manufactured articles.
  • 19: Heading 19 specifically covers articles of personal hygiene.
  • 000500: This subheading further specifies articles made of plastics. The total tax rate is 42.5%, comprised of a 5.0% base tariff and a 7.5% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.

• 9619001510: This HS code covers sanitary pads (towels) and tampons, diapers (napkins), diaper liners and similar articles made of paper, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers.

  • 96: Chapter 96 covers miscellaneous manufactured articles.
  • 19: Heading 19 specifically covers articles of personal hygiene.
  • 001510: This subheading further specifies articles made of paper, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers. The total tax rate is 37.5%, comprised of a 0.0% base tariff and a 7.5% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that the applicable tariff rate will depend on the material composition of the sanitary pads. After April 2, 2025, the additional tariff will increase to 30.0% for both HS codes.