What is HS code for lactic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
291811
Acids; carboxylic acids, (with alcohol function but without other oxygen function), lactic acid, its salts and esters
Heading 2918 — Acids; carboxylic acid with additional oxygen function and their anhydrides, halides, peroxides, peroxyacids; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives
Chapter 29: Organic chemicals
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 291811 when importing or exporting lactic acid, a key ingredient in food products and pharmaceuticals. For example, a shipment of 100 kg of pure lactic acid for use in yogurt production falls under this code.
This code specifically covers carboxylic acids that contain an alcohol function but lack other oxygen functions. It contrasts with HS-6 291812, which includes lactic acid's salts and esters, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between the acid and its derivatives.
In the realm of organic chemicals, this subheading narrows down to lactic acid, a compound often used as a preservative and flavoring agent in food. It’s also utilized in various cosmetic formulations, making it essential for importers and exporters to classify correctly.
When dealing with lactic acid, be mindful of its applications in different industries, as this can affect regulatory requirements and potential tariffs. Ensure that your product specifications match the description under this HS code.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
lactic acid shipments · organic chemicals classification · carboxylic acids · food industry lactic acid · pharmaceutical lactic acid · cosmetic ingredients · biodegradable plastics · food preservation · cleaning product ingredients · fermentation processes · lactic acid regulations · chemical import/export · tariffs on lactic acid · lactic acid derivatives
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- 100 kg of pure lactic acid for yogurt production
- 500 liters of lactic acid used in cosmetic creams
- 200 kg of lactic acid for pharmaceutical formulations
- 50 kg of lactic acid for use in biodegradable plastics
- 1,000 liters of lactic acid for food preservation
- 250 kg of lactic acid for cleaning products
- 10,000 kg of lactic acid shipped for fermentation processes
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify lactic acid for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is lactic acid a carboxylic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the uses of lactic acid in food?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can lactic acid be used in cosmetics?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the regulations for importing lactic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to differentiate between lactic acid and its salts?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the tariff rates for lactic acid imports?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to classify lactic acid for customs purposes
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What products fall under HS code 291811
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Lactic acid applications in the food industry
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Regulatory requirements for importing lactic acid
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between lactic acid and its derivatives
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Lactic acid in cosmetic formulations classification
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding lactic acid tariffs and duties
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Best practices for shipping lactic acid internationally
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What products are classified under HS-6 291811?
- HS-6 291811 covers lactic acid, which is used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It specifically refers to lactic acid without other oxygen functions.
- How do I determine the correct HS code for my lactic acid shipment?
- Ensure your product is pure lactic acid and check its specifications against the description in HS-6 291811. If it contains salts or esters, consider HS-6 291812 instead.
- Are there any special regulations for importing lactic acid?
- Yes, lactic acid may be subject to specific regulations depending on its intended use, especially in food and pharmaceuticals. Check with local authorities for compliance.
- Can lactic acid be used in food preservation?
- Yes, lactic acid is commonly used as a preservative and flavoring agent in various food products, making it an important ingredient in the food industry.
- What is the difference between lactic acid and its salts?
- Lactic acid is the pure acid form, while its salts are derived compounds that may have different properties and uses. Salts fall under HS-6 291812.
- What are the tariff rates for lactic acid imports?
- Tariff rates for lactic acid can vary by country and depend on trade agreements. Consult your customs broker for specific rates applicable to your shipment.
- Is lactic acid safe for cosmetic use?
- Yes, lactic acid is widely used in cosmetics for its exfoliating properties and is generally considered safe when used according to regulations.
- How can I ensure my lactic acid is classified correctly?
- Provide detailed product specifications and consult with a customs broker who can assist in determining the correct classification based on your product's characteristics.
Continue classification
Parent context
Nearby siblings
Next best action
Pick one of these actions to move from reading to a defensible classification decision.