Rubber Sunscreen Agent Compound
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4005910000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3812399000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3812310000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999397 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 4005990000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
βοΈ Rubber Sunscreen Agent Compound (Antioxidants & UV Stabilizers)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Is a "Rubber Sunscreen Agent"?
Rubber Sunscreen Agents, also known as UV Stabilizers or Anti-degradants, are critical chemical additives in the rubber industry. They are designed to protect rubber products from degradation caused by ultraviolet (UV) light, oxygen, and ozone. These agents prevent cracking, discoloration, and loss of mechanical properties, significantly extending the service life of rubber goods used outdoors (e.g., car tires, roofing membranes, cable jackets).
In international trade, these compounds are classified based on their chemical function and material composition: * Chemical Stabilizers/Antioxidants: Compounds that inhibit oxidation and UV damage (e.g., TMQ, hindered amines, carbon black derivatives). * Unvulcanized Rubber Preparations: Compounds where the sunscreen agent is pre-mixed into a rubber base or acts as a specific rubber additive.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is a pure chemical compound acting as an antioxidant/stabilizer β Classify under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
- If the product is a mixture pre-blended with rubber or fits the definition of unvulcanized rubber preparations β Classify under Chapter 40 (Rubber and Articles Thereof).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
3812.39.90.00 |
Rubber Sunscreen Agent, categorized as other composite stabilizers or antioxidant preparations | General-purpose UV stabilizers, mixed antioxidant blends | β Chemical Function |
3812.31.00.00 |
Rubber Sunscreen Agent, categorized as chemical stabilizers/antioxidants (e.g., TMQ oligomers) | Specific antioxidant compounds, TMQ resins | β Chemical Function |
3824.99.93.97 |
Rubber Sunscreen Agent, categorized as other chemical products/preparations of the chemical or allied industries | Complex formulations not strictly defined in 3812 | β General Chemical |
4005.91.00.00 |
Rubber Sunscreen Agent, categorized as unvulcanized rubber-related chemical additives | Additives pre-integrated or classified as rubber preparations | β Rubber Material |
4005.99.00.00 |
Rubber Sunscreen Agent, categorized as other unvulcanized rubber mixtures | Fallback category for rubber-based sunscreen compounds | β Rubber Material |
π Important Reminder:
- Products classified under HS 3812/3824 are treated as chemical additives, subject to specific chemical tariffs.
- Products classified under HS 4005 are treated as rubber preparations, often benefiting from lower base duties but still subject to trade war tariffs.
- Do not mix categories: Misclassifying a chemical antioxidant as a rubber preparation (or vice versa) can lead to customs audits, delays, or penalties.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes, Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3812.39.90.00 ββ Rubber Sunscreen Agent (Other Composite Stabilizers)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax (Section 301) | +25% (from USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Additional Tax (Section 122) | +10% (Targeting China/HK products, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3812.39.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- The 25% USITC tax is part of the Section 301 trade measures against China.
- The 10% IEEPA tax is a new additional levy under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
- Total 40% is a high tariff burden. Importers must factor this into cost models.
π― 2. 3812.31.00.00 ββ Rubber Sunscreen Agent (Chemical Stabilizers/Antioxidants)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tax (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3812.31.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- This category typically covers specific antioxidant compounds like TMQ (Terphenylquinone) resins.
- The base duty is slightly higher (6.5% vs 5.0%) than3812.39, resulting in a total rate of 41.5%.
π― 3. 3824.99.93.97 ββ Rubber Sunscreen Agent (Other Chemical Products)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tax (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3824.99.93.97 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Used for complex chemical formulations that do not fit strictly into antioxidant categories (3812).
- Total rate is 40.0%, similar to3812.39.
π― 4. 4005.91.00.00 ββ Rubber Sunscreen Agent (Unvulcanized Rubber Additives)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tax (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:4005.91.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Classified under Chapter 40, the base duty is 0%, leading to a lower total rate of 35%.
- This is only applicable if the product is deemed a "rubber preparation" rather than a pure chemical additive.
π― 5. 4005.99.00.00 ββ Rubber Sunscreen Agent (Other Unvulcanized Rubber Mixtures)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tax (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Tax (Section 122) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:4005.99.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Fallback category for rubber-based sunscreen compounds.
- Also benefits from the 0% base duty, resulting in a total rate of 35%.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation List (All Mandatory)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Details on chemical composition, active ingredients (e.g., TMQ content), UV absorption range |
| β SDS (Safety Data Sheet) | βοΈ | Required for chemical imports, confirms hazard classification |
| β Product Photos (Including Label) | βοΈ | Clear view of packaging, batch number, manufacturer |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly state "Rubber Sunscreen Agent" or "UV Stabilizer for Rubber" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Net/Gross weight, dimensions, package type |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | If applicable, to verify Chinese origin (subject to tariffs) |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | Lab reports confirming chemical composition and performance |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Chemical vs. Rubber, Check the Function First! Base 0-6.5, Add 35-41.5!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Chemical Antioxidant (e.g., TMQ) | 3812.31.00.00 or 3812.39.90.00 |
Misdeclare as Rubber β Potential Audit |
| Pre-mixed Rubber Compound with UV Agent | 4005.91.00.00 or 4005.99.00.00 |
Misdeclare as Chemical β Higher Duty Risk |
| Complex Chemical Formulation | 3824.99.93.97 |
Misdeclare as Rubber β Rejection |
| Always | Include "Made in China" | Hiding origin β Penalties |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Blends | Provide client order + formula breakdown to justify HS code |
| Bulk vs. Retail Packaging | Bulk chemical drums β Chapter 38; Small retail packs for rubber factories β Could still be Chapter 38 or 40 depending on content |
| Re-exported Goods | If goods are processed in a third country (e.g., Vietnam) and gain substantial transformation, origin may change β IEEPA tax may be avoided |
| Dual-Use Chemicals | If the sunscreen agent has military applications, additional export controls may apply |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3812.39.90.00 / 4005.91.00.00 |
35% - 41.5% | None specific, but SDS required | High tariffs due to trade war |
| π¨π³ China | 3812.39.90.00 |
5% - 6.5% | None specific | No additional trade war taxes |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3812.39.90.00 |
5.5% - 6.5% | REACH Registration | No additional taxes |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3812.39.90.00 |
5% | AICIS Registration | No additional taxes |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3812.39.90.00 |
5.5% | None specific | No additional taxes |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is significantly more expensive for Chinese-made rubber sunscreen agents due to Section 301 and IEEPA taxes.
- EU, Japan, and Australia offer more favorable tariff environments.
- Strategic Suggestion: Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., sourcing from Thailand, Vietnam) to avoid US additional tariffs, provided substantial transformation occurs.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons from Blood and Tears)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a pure chemical antioxidant as a "Rubber Product" to seek lower base duty
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify, assess higher penalties, or delay shipment.
π‘ Fix: Accurately describe chemical composition in the specification sheet.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring the IEEPA 10% tax added in 2025
π Consequence: Unexpected 10% cost increase β Margin erosion.
π‘ Fix: Update all cost models to include the full 35-41.5% rate.
β Mistake 3: Using vague descriptions like "Rubber Additive"
π Consequence: Customs officer uncertainty β Audit request β Delay.
π‘ Fix: Use precise terms: "UV Stabilizer for Rubber, Chemical Composition: TMQ Resin, CAS No. XXXXX".
β Mistake 4: Assuming De Minimis Exemption (Under $800) applies
π Consequence: Shipment seized or taxed despite small value.
π‘ Fix: No De Minimis for Section 301/IEEPA goods. Plan logistics for full tariff payment.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Rubber Sunscreen Agent, UV Stabilizer, Chemical Name: TMQ Oligomer, CAS No. 67766-26-7, HS Code 3812.31.00.00, Made in China"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Time-Saving, Cost-Effective!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Chemical vs. Rubber, Function First! 3812-3824, 35-41.5%! No De Minimis, Plan Ahead!"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Tax, 6.5% vs 0% Base, Declare Correctly, Save Thousands!"
π Pro Tip:
If your rubber sunscreen agent is sourced from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, and undergoes substantial transformation, you may be eligible for IEEPA Exemption (tax rate 0%~5%).
Recommendation: Apply for a Pre-Ruling (Advance Ruling) from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to confirm the correct HS code and tariff liability before shipment.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Ensure your Rubber Sunscreen Agents clear customs smoothly, export efficiently, and maximize profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Penny of Your Cost Deserves 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.