Colloidal Sulfur Suspension
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3808594000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3808923000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3004909206 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3004909212 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
β£οΈ Colloidal Sulfur Suspension (Colloidal Sulfur)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Colloidal Sulfur Suspension"?
Colloidal Sulfur Suspension is a specialized agricultural fungicide. It consists of fine sulfur particles suspended in a liquid medium, designed to be applied as a spray. In international trade, it is strictly categorized based on its intended use and formulation:
1. Agricultural/Industrial Fungicide (Most Common)
- Used to treat plant diseases (e.g., powdery mildew, rust).
- Regarded as a "plant-protection product" or "pesticide."
- Key Characteristic: Applied to crops, not humans/animals for medical treatment.
- Classification Path: Heading 3808 (Insecticides, Rodenticides, Fungicides, Herbicides...).
2. Medical/Therapeutic Fungicide (Less Common for Bulk Industrial Trade)
- Used for human or veterinary treatment of fungal infections (e.g., ringworm, scabies).
- Regarded as a "medicament."
- Key Characteristic: Put up in measured doses or retail packaging for therapeutic/prophylactic use.
- Classification Path: Heading 3004 (Medicaments).
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the product is labeled for agricultural use (field crops, ornamentals, greenhouse plants) β HS 3808.
- If the product is labeled for medical/veterinary use (skin infections, internal parasites) and put up in retail doses β HS 3004.
- Note: Most bulk "Colloidal Sulfur Suspension" imports are agricultural fungicides. Medical-grade sulfur is usually topical creams or ointments, not liquid suspensions in large drums.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on your provided data, here are the precise HS Codes and their applicability:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Rate (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3808.59.40.00 | Disinfectants (Other insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, herbicides... put up in forms/packings for retail sale or as preparations) | Primary Choice for Agricultural Fungicides that do not fit specific subheadings. "Colloidal Sulfur" as a general agricultural fungicide often falls under "Other" fungicides or disinfectants depending on specific chemical composition and regulatory definition in the destination country. Note: In many jurisdictions, specific sulfur fungicides might have their own subheading, but if not, this "Other" category applies. | 0.0% |
| 3808.92.30.00 | Fungicides: Other: Containing an inorganic substance | Specific Choice for Inorganic Fungicides. Sulfur is an inorganic substance. If the customs authority specifically requires "Fungicides" under Heading 3808 and further splits by "Containing inorganic substance," this is the most technically accurate code for sulfur-based fungicides. | 0.0% |
| 3004.90.92.06 | Medicaments: Anti-infective: Antifungals: Other | For Human/Veterinary Medicinal Use. If the colloidal sulfur is prepared specifically as a drug for treating fungal infections in humans/animals (e.g., scabies treatment) and put up in retail doses. | 0.0% |
| 3004.90.92.12 | Medicaments: Anti-infective: Antiprotozoals: Other | Rare for Sulfur. Generally, sulfur is not primarily classified as an antiprotozoal. This code is included in your data but is likely incorrect for Colloidal Sulfur Suspension unless it is a compounded veterinary drug specifically for protozoal diseases (e.g., coccidiosis) where sulfur is the active ingredient. Use with extreme caution. | 0.0% |
π Key Analysis:
- For Agricultural Use: 3808.92.30.00 is the most precise description ("Fungicides... Containing an inorganic substance"). 3808.59.40.00 is a broader "Other" category, acceptable if 3808.92.30.00 is not strictly enforced or if the product has disinfectant properties.
- For Medical Use: 3004.90.92.06 is correct for antifungal medicaments.
- Tax Rate: All listed HS Codes have a 0.0% total tax rate (Base 0% + Additional 0%). This is highly favorable!
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Detailed Explanation (Including Surcharges, Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 onwards (for subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3808.92.30.00 ββ Fungicides (Inorganic Substance)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (301 Section) | 0% (Not listed in your provided data as having surcharges) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0% (Not listed in your provided data as having surcharges) |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Generally, agricultural chemicals may qualify for Section 321 de minimis if valued under $800, BUT check FDA/USDA restrictions) |
| Legal Basis Path | Chapter 38 Note 1 β Subheading 3808.92 β 3808.92.30.00 |
π Explanation:
- Sulfur is an inorganic substance. Therefore, it falls under "Fungicides... Containing an inorganic substance."
- No Additional Tariffs: According to your provided data, this item has 0.0% total tax. This means no 25% USITC tariff and no 10% IEEPA tariff apply to this specific HS code in this dataset.
- β οΈ Important: This is unusually low compared to other agricultural products. Verify if your product is classified under 3808.92.30.00 specifically. If customs reclassifies it to a different "Other" fungicide code (e.g., 3808.94), tariffs might differ. But based on the provided data, it is tax-free.
π― 2. 3808.59.40.00 ββ Disinfectants (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Yes (Check FDA/USDA) |
| Legal Basis Path | Chapter 38 Note 1 β Subheading 3808.59 β 3808.59.40.00 |
π Explanation:
- If the product is deemed a "Disinfectant" rather than a specific "Fungicide," this code applies.
- Also 0.0% tax.
π― 3. 3004.90.92.06 ββ Antifungals (Medicament)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0% |
| USITC Surcharge | 0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | 0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Medicines are generally prohibited from de minimis entry due to FDA regulations) |
| Legal Basis Path | Chapter 30 Note 2 β Subheading 3004.90 β 3004.90.92.06 |
π Explanation:
- If imported as a drug, it is 0% tax, but FDA clearance is mandatory.
- Not eligible for de minimis (Section 321) for individual packages if intended for human use.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (Missing Items Will Cause Delays)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify: % Sulfur content, formulation type (colloidal suspension), pH, viscosity. |
| β FDA Registration (if medical) | βοΈ | If classified under 3004, FDA facility registration and prior notice are mandatory. |
| β EPA Registration (if agricultural) | βοΈ | If classified under 3808 for agricultural use, EPA registration may be required if it's considered a pesticide. Note: Sulfur is often exempt from EPA registration in the US, but check current EPA exemptions. |
| β MSDS/SDS | βοΈ | Safety Data Sheet is critical for chemical imports. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Colloidal Sulfur Suspension, Fungicide for Agricultural Use" or "Antifungal Medicament." |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | To confirm China origin for tax purposes. |
| β Labeling Compliance | βοΈ | US labels must comply with EPA/FDA regulations, including hazard warnings. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Agricultural? Check EPA. Medical? Check FDA. Inorganic? 3808.92.30.00. Medicinal? 3004.90.92.06. No Tax, But High Compliance!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Fungicide | HS: 3808.92.30.00Description: "Colloidal Sulfur Suspension, Fungicide" |
Declare as "Chemical" or "Soap" β High scrutiny |
| Medical Antifungal | HS: 3004.90.92.06Description: "Colloidal Sulfur Antifungal Cream/Lotion" |
Declare as "Cosmetic" β FDA seizure |
| Bulk Liquid (55-gallon drum) | HS: 3808.92.30.00Declare as "Pesticide/Fungicide" |
Declare as "Fertilizer" β Wrong classification |
| Small Retail Bottle (Medical) | HS: 3004.90.92.06Declare as "Medicament" |
Declare as "General Chemical" β No FDA clearance |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| EPA Exemption for Sulfur | In the US, elemental sulfur is often exempt from EPA registration as a pesticide. However, formulations may need review. Consult EPA guidelines. |
| FDA Prior Notice | For 3004 (medical) or even some 3808 (pesticide) imports, Prior Notice to FDA/Customs is required before arrival. |
| Hazardous Material Classification | Sulfur is generally not hazardous, but the suspension liquid may contain additives. Check UN numbers for transport. |
| De Minimis (Section 321) | If importing small quantities (<$800) for agricultural use, it may be eligible. For medical use, NOT eligible. |
π V. Global Main Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3808.92.30.00 (Agri) / 3004.90.92.06 (Med) |
0.0% | EPA (Agri) / FDA (Med) | No additional tariffs on these codes. |
| π¨π³ China | 3808.92.30.00 |
Varies (Check latest) | CCC (if applicable) | Generally low tariffs for agricultural chemicals. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3808.94.10 (Fungicides) |
~6.5% | EFSA Approval | EU has stricter pesticide regulations. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3808.94.10 |
~6.5% | HSE Approval | Post-Brexit, UK follows HSE. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3808.94.10 |
5% | APVMA Registration | Strict biosecurity controls. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most favorable market for Colloidal Sulfur Suspension in terms of tariff (0%).
- Regulatory compliance (EPA/FDA) is the main hurdle, not tariffs.
- China origin goods face no additional tariffs on these specific HS codes.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned from Blood)
β Error 1: Declaring "Colloidal Sulfur" as "Sulfur Powder" (HS 2503)
π Consequence: Wrong classification. Sulfur suspension is a preparation, not a raw mineral. Penalties for misclassification.
β Error 2: Ignoring FDA/EPA requirements because tariffs are 0%
π Consequence: Seizure and destruction of goods. Even with 0% tax, regulatory compliance is mandatory.
β Error 3: Using "De Minimis" for medical sulfur products
π Consequence: Denial of entry. Medicines cannot enter via Section 321. Must go through formal FDA clearance.
β Error 4: Misclassifying as "Disinfectant" (3808.59.40.00) when it's a Fungicide (3808.92.30.00)
π Consequence: While tax is the same (0%), regulatory reporting differs. Fungicides may require EPA notification; disinfectants may not. Always declare accurately.
β Correct Practice:
"Colloidal Sulfur Suspension, 50% Sulfur, Agricultural Fungicide, For Control of Powdery Mildew, EPA Exempt, HS Code 3808.92.30.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Time and Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "0% Tax, 100% Compliance!"
πΉ "Agricultural = EPA. Medical = FDA. Sulfur = 3808.92.30.00!"
πΉ "No Tariffs, But Don't Skip the Papers!"
π Tips:
- If your Colloidal Sulfur is for agriculture, ensure it's EPA-exempt (elemental sulfur often is).
- If for medical, ensure FDA Prior Notice is filed.
- Always provide SDS and Product Spec Sheets to your customs broker.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your customs broker + Provide Product Label + Verify EPA/FDA status
π Let your Colloidal Sulfur, Clear Customs Smoothly, Enter the US Market, and Grow Profitably!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Every Dollar of Cost is Worthy of Precise Calculation!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.