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HS-6 · Subheading

291821

Acids; carboxylic acids, (with phenol function but without other oxygen function), salicylic acid and its salts

Heading 2918Acids; 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 291821 when importing or exporting salicylic acid and its salts, commonly found in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. For instance, a shipment of 100 kg of salicylic acid for use in acne treatment would fall under this code.

This code specifically covers carboxylic acids with a phenol function, distinguishing it from HS-6 291820, which includes other carboxylic acids without the phenolic structure. If you're dealing with a product that contains salicylic acid, this is the right classification.

Salicylic acid is often used in skin care products, such as exfoliating creams and acne treatments. It can also be found in certain hair care products and as a preservative in cosmetics. Understanding this classification helps ensure compliance with customs regulations.

When considering similar products, note that HS-6 291822 covers derivatives of salicylic acid, such as its esters. If your product is a derivative rather than the acid itself, you would need to classify it differently.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

salicylic acid · carboxylic acids · phenol function · acne treatment · cosmetic ingredients · pharmaceuticals · chemical classification · HS code 291821 · import salicylic acid · export salicylic acid · salicylic acid solutions · salicylic acid powder · bulk chemicals · industrial chemicals · salicylic acid derivatives · cosmetic formulations

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • 100 kg of salicylic acid for acne treatment
  • 500 liters of a salicylic acid solution for cosmetic use
  • 200 kg of salicylic acid used in a pharmaceutical formulation
  • Salicylic acid powder in 25 kg bags for export
  • Salicylic acid as an ingredient in hair care products
  • Salicylic acid mixed with other compounds in a cosmetic cream
  • Bulk shipment of salicylic acid for industrial use
  • Salicylic acid in a 1-liter bottle for retail sale

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS code 291821?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify salicylic acid?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

Is salicylic acid a carboxylic acid?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What products use HS code 291821?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Can I import salicylic acid?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the regulations for salicylic acid imports?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to export salicylic acid safely?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the uses of salicylic acid in cosmetics?

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 determine the correct HS code for salicylic acid

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

What are the customs requirements for salicylic acid shipments

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

Differences between salicylic acid and its derivatives

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

Classification of salicylic acid in cosmetic products

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Is salicylic acid regulated for import?

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

How to classify products containing salicylic acid

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Salicylic acid in pharmaceuticals and its HS code

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Understanding the uses of salicylic acid in trade

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 fall under HS code 291821?
HS code 291821 covers salicylic acid and its salts, typically used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, especially for acne treatment.
Can I import salicylic acid without special permits?
Importing salicylic acid may require compliance with specific regulations depending on your country. Check with local customs for any necessary permits.
What is the difference between HS code 291821 and 291820?
HS code 291821 specifically includes salicylic acid with a phenol function, while 291820 covers other carboxylic acids without this structure.
How should salicylic acid be packaged for export?
Salicylic acid should be packaged in secure containers, typically in powder form or as a solution, to prevent contamination and ensure stability.
Are there any restrictions on exporting salicylic acid?
Export restrictions on salicylic acid vary by country. Always check with your local trade regulations and customs authorities.
What are common uses for salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is commonly used in acne treatment products, exfoliating creams, hair care products, and as a preservative in cosmetics.
How do I find the right HS code for my product?
To find the correct HS code, analyze the product's composition, function, and intended use, and consult the HS classification guidelines.
Can salicylic acid be classified differently?
Yes, if the product is a derivative or a mixture containing salicylic acid, it may fall under a different HS code, such as 291822 for its esters.

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