colored emulsion surfactant
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3307102000 | 39.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3307900000 | 40.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402499000 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3213900000 | 38.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3307102000 | 39.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π¨ Colored Emulsion Surfactant (彩θ²δΉ³ζΆ²θ‘¨ι’ζ΄»ζ§ε)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Classification Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Colored Emulsion Surfactant"?
Colored Emulsion Surfactant is a complex chemical formulation used primarily in cosmetic, personal care, or artistic applications. It combines two distinct functional components: 1. Surfactant (Surface Active Agent): The chemical backbone responsible for cleaning, emulsifying, or stabilizing. 2. Colored Emulsion: The physical state (liquid/semi-liquid) and aesthetic property (pigment/dye) intended for cosmetic coverage or artistic application.
In international trade, this product sits at the intersection of Chemicals (Chapter 34) and Cosmetics/Perfumery (Chapter 33). The correct classification depends on whether the customs authority prioritizes the chemical function (surfactant) or the end-use (cosmetic/artistic).
β οΈ Key Classification Distinction:
- If the primary purpose is cosmetic application (e.g., foundation, colored primer, makeup base) β Classified under Chapter 33 (Perfumery/Cosmetics).
- If the primary purpose is industrial/chemical processing (e.g., textile dyeing aid, industrial emulsifier where color is incidental) β Classified under Chapter 34 (Surfactants).
- Note: The provided data suggests specific interpretations for both pathways, leading to different tax liabilities.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Primary Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
3307.90.00.00 |
Other perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations | Colored makeup bases, cosmetic emulsions | End-Use Driven: "Emulsion" implies cosmetic form; surfactant is a component. |
3402.49.90.00 |
Other organic surface-active agents | Industrial surfactants, cleaning aids, emulsifiers | Composition Driven: "Surfactant" is the material attribute; emulsion is the form. |
3307.10.20.00 |
Shaving preparations and pre-shave preparations | Colored shaving creams, cosmetic gels | Fallback/Inference: "Emulsion" fits cosmetic toiletries; surfactant is ingredient. |
3213.90.00.00 |
Other paints, enamels and varnishes (incl. water distempers) | Artistic colored paints, professional colorants | Material Driven: "Liquid pigment/emulsion" fits artistic paint category. |
3307.90.00.00 |
Other perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations | Colored makeup bases, cosmetic emulsions | End-Use Driven: (Duplicate entry in source data) "Emulsion" implies cosmetic form. |
π Critical Reminder:
- Cosmetic Classification (3307): Applies if the product is marketed for personal care, makeup, or toiletries. The presence of surfactants does not disqualify it from Chapter 33 if the end-use is cosmetic.
- Chemical Classification (3402): Applies if the product is an industrial surfactant where the "color" is a batch indicator or the surfactant function is paramount.
- Artistic Classification (3213): Rare, but possible if sold as "artist-grade colored paint" rather than cosmetic.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3307.90.00.00 ββ Other Perfumery, Cosmetic or Toilet Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.4% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific China-related add-on) |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3307.90.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- "Base Tariff 5.4%": Standard MFN rate for general cosmetics/preparations.
- "Section 301 Surtax 25%": Added tariff on Chinese goods under Trade Act Section 301.
- "Section 122 Tariff 10%": Additional duty based on specific enforcement actions (e.g., anti-dumping/countervailing or specific import restrictions).
- Total 40.4%: This is a high-cost classification. Importers must factor this into landed cost calculations.
π― 2. 3402.49.90.00 ββ Other Organic Surface-Active Agents
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.7% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific China-related add-on) |
| Total Effective Rate | 38.7% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3402.49.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Slightly Lower than Cosmetics: Due to a lower base rate (3.7% vs 5.4%), the total tax is 1.7% lower than cosmetic classification.
- Risk: Misclassifying a cosmetic product as a chemical surfactant can lead to seizure, penalties, and back-taxes if customs audits the productβs intended use.
π― 3. 3307.10.20.00 ββ Shaving Preparations and Pre-shave Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.9% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific China-related add-on) |
| Total Effective Rate | 39.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.9% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3307.10.20.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Caution:
- This classification is only valid if the product is explicitly shaving cream, gel, or pre-shave lotion.
- If the product is a general cosmetic emulsion, this is a misclassification.
π― 4. 3213.90.00.00 ββ Other Paints, Enamels and Varnishes
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.4% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +25.0% (From USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific China-related add-on) |
| Total Effective Rate | 38.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3213.90.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- This is the lowest total tax rate (38.4%) in the dataset.
- High Risk: Only applicable if the product is proven to be artist paint or industrial colorant, NOT cosmetic. Misuse here is a major compliance red flag.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Must Provide? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications (TDS/MSDS) | βοΈ | Must clearly state chemical composition (surfactant %), intended use (cosmetic vs. industrial), and colorant type. |
| β Product Photos (Label/Packaging) | βοΈ | Must show usage instructions (e.g., "For Makeup" vs. "Industrial Emulsifier"). |
| β Third-Party Test Reports | βοΈ | FDA/USP compliance (if cosmetic) or REACH/TSCA compliance (if chemical). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must describe product accurately: "Colored Cosmetic Emulsion Base" vs. "Industrial Organic Surfactant." |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To determine eligibility for any potential exemptions (though unlikely for these codes). |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Confirm net weight and dimensions. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ "Cosmetic Emulsion? Chapter 33. Chemical Surfactant? Chapter 34. Don't Mix Them, Or You'll Pay More!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Makeup Base/Foundation | 3307.90.00.00 |
Declare as "Surfactant" β Customs Rejection |
| Industrial Cleaning Emulsion | 3402.49.90.00 |
Declare as "Cosmetic" β Higher Tax (40.4%) |
| Artist Paint | 3213.90.00.00 |
Declare as "Cosmetic" β Higher Tax (40.4%) |
| Shaving Cream | 3307.10.20.00 |
Declare as "Other Cosmetic" β Higher Tax (40.4%) |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Colored Surfactant | Provide customer order + Statement of Use. If used in cosmetics, classify as 3307. |
| Multi-Use Product (Cosmetic & Industrial) | Classify based on primary intended use. If marketing is cosmetic, use 3307. |
| Colored Emulsion with High Surfactant Content | Surfactant percentage does not override end-use. If itβs sold as makeup, itβs Chapter 33. |
| Artistic Pigment Emulsion | Must provide Artist Safety Data Sheet and marketing materials targeting artists to justify 3213. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3307.90.00.00 (Cosmetic) |
40.4% | FDA Registration + TSCA | High tax due to 301/122 duties. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3402.49.90.00 (Chemical) |
38.7% | TSCA | Slightly lower, but risky if misclassified. |
| π¨π³ China | 3307.90.00.00 |
~5-10% | NMPA Registration | No 301/122 surtaxes. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3307.90.00 |
6.5% | CPNP Notification + EC 1223/2009 | No Section 301/122 surtaxes. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3307.90.00 |
6.5% | UKCA + Product Safety | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the highest-cost market due to Section 301 (25%) and Section 122 (10%) duties.
- Misclassification is dangerous: Claiming "Cosmetic" when it's "Industrial" can lead to penalties. Claiming "Industrial" when it's "Cosmetic" leads to higher taxes and compliance violations (FDA).
- Strategy: If the product is truly a cosmetic, embrace the 40.4% tax. If itβs an industrial surfactant, ensure all documentation proves non-cosmetic use to secure the 38.7% rate.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring a colored foundation as "Organic Surfactant" (3402) to save 1.7%.
π Consequence: Customs audits find marketing materials showing "makeup." Seizure + Penalties + Back Taxes.
β Error 2: Declaring an industrial emulsifier as "Cosmetic" (3307).
π Consequence: Overpaying 1.7% tax unnecessarily. Plus, potential FDA registration failures if not actually a cosmetic.
β Error 3: Using vague terms like "Colored Liquid Chemical."
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine intent β Delayed clearance, inspection delays, possible return.
β Correct Practice:
"Colored Cosmetic Emulsion Base, for Makeup Application, Contains Anionic Surfactants, TSCA Compliant, For External Use Only"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Time-Saving, Cost-Effective!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Cosmetic End-Use? Go Chapter 33. Chemical Function? Go Chapter 34. Don't Mix, Or You'll Pay More!"
πΉ "HS Code Decides Life, Tax Difference 1.7%, Declaration Mistake Costs Thousands!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is originally from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may be exempt from Section 301/122 surtaxes.
- Recommendation: Apply for an Advance Ruling from US Customs (CBP) to confirm the correct HS Code and duty rate before shipping.
- Action: Contact a licensed customs broker + Provide Product TDS + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Clear Customs Smoothly, Export Efficiently, Maximize Profits!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every Penny of Your Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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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.