microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3913905000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 1302390090 | 20.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 1302199140 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3913902090 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3913902090 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
🌿 Microcrystalline Cellulose Powder for Capsules
🌐 HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Updated Tariff Analysis | Strategic Import Planning
📌 One Product, Multiple Classifications — Why the HS Code Matters!
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) powder for capsules is a critical excipient in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturing. Despite being chemically identical, different HS codes apply based on form, origin, and structural classification, leading to drastically different tariffs — some as high as 41.5%.
⚠️ Key Insight:
- The same product (microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules) can be classified under 5 different HS codes, each with entirely different tax implications. - Form, material origin, and structural classification determine the correct HS code — not just the chemical name.
📦 二、HS Code Classification Breakdown (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Material Type | Form | Classification Category | Total Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3913.90.50.00 |
Microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules, powder form, modified natural polymer (cellulose derivative) | Modified natural polymer | Powder | Other natural polymers | 41.5% |
1302.39.00.90 |
Microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules, powder form, plant fiber source | Plant fiber cellulose | Powder | Plant mucilages and thickening agents | 20.7% |
1302.19.91.40 |
Microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules, powder form, plant derivative | Plant fiber derivative | Powder | Plant juices and extracts | 17.5% |
3913.90.20.90 |
Microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules, in primary form, polysaccharide and derivatives | Polysaccharide derivative | Primary form | Other polysaccharides and derivatives | 40.8% |
3913.90.20.90 |
Microcrystalline cellulose powder for capsules, polymer in primary form, used for capsule production | Polysaccharide derivative | Primary polymer | Other polysaccharides and derivatives | 40.8% |
🔍 Critical Observation:
- Same product, same use, but different HS codes due to subtle differences in classification logic. - The form (powder vs. primary form) and material origin (natural polymer vs. plant extract) are decisive.
💰 三、2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown (With Detailed Legal Basis)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (inclusive)
🎯 1. 3913.90.50.00 — Other Natural Polymers (Modified Cellulose Derivative)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 (USITC) Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| Section 122 (IEEPA) Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Duty | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 41.5% |
| De Minimis Threshold | ❌ Not applicable (denied) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3913.90.50.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Why This Applies:
- The product is modified cellulose (derivative), not raw plant fiber. - Classified under "other natural polymers" due to chemical modification. - Highest tariff — 41.5% — due to 301 + 122 clauses.
🎯 2. 1302.39.00.90 — Plant Mucilages and Thickening Agents (Plant Fiber Source)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 3.2% |
| Section 301 (USITC) Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 (IEEPA) Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Duty | 20.7% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 20.7% |
| De Minimis Threshold | ❌ Not applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:1302.39.00.90 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Why This Applies:
- Treated as plant fiber source, not chemically modified. - Classified under "mucilages and thickening agents" — lower base rate. - Significantly lower than the 41.5% code.
🎯 3. 1302.19.91.40 — Plant Juices and Extracts (Plant Derivative)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 0.0% |
| Section 301 (USITC) Additional Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 (IEEPA) Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Duty | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 17.5% |
| De Minimis Threshold | ❌ Not applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:1302.19.91.40 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Why This Applies:
- Viewed as a derivative of plant extract, not a polymer. - Zero base duty, but still subject to 122 + 301. - Lowest total tax among all codes — 17.5%.
🎯 4. 3913.90.20.90 — Other Polysaccharides and Derivatives (Primary Form)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 5.8% |
| Section 301 (USITC) Additional Duty | +25.0% |
| Section 122 (IEEPA) Additional Duty | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Duty | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 40.8% |
| De Minimis Threshold | ❌ Not applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3913.90.20.90 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Why This Applies:
- Classified as primary form polymer, not final powder. - High base duty (5.8%) + full 301 + 122. - Only 0.7% lower than3913.90.50.00, but still extremely high.
🛠️ 四、Customs Clearance Strategy (Pro Tips to Save 20–25% in Tariffs)
✅ 1. Critical Documentation Checklist (Mandatory!)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Show particle size, moisture content, purity, intended use |
| ✅ Chemical Structure & Derivation Report | ✔️ | Prove if it's modified cellulose or raw plant extract |
| ✅ Batch Test Report (HPLC, FTIR) | ✔️ | Confirm chemical identity and absence of impurities |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clearly state: “Microcrystalline Cellulose Powder for Capsules” |
| ✅ Certificate of Origin (CO) | ✔️ | If from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand → may qualify for IEEPA exemption |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Show packaging type (bulk, sealed, etc.) |
| ✅ Label & Packaging Photos | ✔️ | Prove form (powder vs. primary form) |
✅ 2. 申报技巧 (Golden Rules)
🔥 “Form Defines Tax, Origin Defines Rate, Derivation Defines Fate!”
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Why? | Risk of Error |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder, modified cellulose | 3913.90.50.00 |
Modified polymer → highest tax | ❌ High |
| Powder, plant fiber source | 1302.39.00.90 |
Treated as mucilage → lower tax | ✅ Best |
| Powder, plant extract derivative | 1302.19.91.40 |
Zero base duty → lowest tax | ✅ Optimal |
| Primary form, unprocessed | 3913.90.20.90 |
High base duty → 40.8% | ❌ Avoid if possible |
📌 Pro Tip:
If your product is not chemically modified, avoid3913.90.50.00and3913.90.20.90.
Push for1302.19.91.40— only 17.5% total duty.
✅ 3. Special Cases & Mitigation
| Situation | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Product from Vietnam/Mexico/Thailand | Apply for IEEPA exemption → 0% duty |
| Customs Audit Risk | Submit Advance Ruling Request (pre-clearance) |
| High-volume shipments | Negotiate tariff classification agreement with customs broker |
| Need to reduce cost | Consider repackaging (e.g., from primary form to powder) to qualify for lower code |
🌍 五、Global Market Tariff Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 1302.19.91.40 |
17.5% | FDA, GMP | High risk if misclassified |
| 🇨🇳 China | 3913.90.50.00 |
5% | GMP, CCC | No 301/122 |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3913.90.50.00 |
0% (if CE) | CE, REACH | No additional duties |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 3913.90.50.00 |
5% | RCM | No 301/122 |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 3913.90.50.00 |
0% | PSE | No extra taxes |
📌 Insight:
- USA is the only market with 301 + 122 tariffs on MCC. - China, EU, Japan, Australia have no additional duties — ideal for export.
📌 六、Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❌ Mistake 1: Using 3913.90.50.00 for non-modified MCC
👉 Result: Pay 41.5% instead of 17.5% → 24% overpayment!
❌ Mistake 2: Not proving plant origin vs. modified polymer
👉 Result: Customs may reclassify and impose higher duty.
❌ Mistake 3: Using generic name “cellulose powder” in invoice
👉 Result: No clarity → delayed clearance, audit risk.
✅ Correct Practice:
“Microcrystalline Cellulose Powder, Plant-Derived, Non-Modified, for Capsule Formulation, Batch No. XYZ, HPLC Verified, GMP Certified”
🎯 七、Final Verdict: Choose Wisely, Save Millions
🎯 Key Takeaway:
🔹 Same product, different HS codes → 17.5% vs. 41.5%
🔹 Form, origin, and modification status decide your tax bill
🔹1302.19.91.40is the sweet spot — lowest tax if eligible
📌 Pro Tip:
📞 Apply for an Advance Ruling (Pre-Clearance) from U.S. Customs before shipment.
🚀 Lock in the lowest possible tariff — avoid surprise costs.
📣 Act Now!
📩 Contact a specialized customs broker with pharma excipient experience
📊 Get HS Code pre-approval for your MCC powder
💰 Save up to 24% in tariffs — that’s real money!
✨ Precision Classification = Profit Protection
💼 Your next shipment could be 24% cheaper — if you classify it right!
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) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — 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 — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — 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.