Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonic Acids and Their Salts

Tariff line 3402311000 covers linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (the neutralized salt form, typically sodium LAS), which is the finished surfactant active used directly in detergent formulations. Line 3402319000 covers the sulfonic acid form (LABSA) and other salt variants. The distinction matters because the acid form is an intermediate requiring further neutralization, while the sulfonate salt is ready for compounding — affecting both classification and downstream processing declarations.

As of recent trade schedules, no active US antidumping or countervailing duty orders specifically target linear alkylbenzene sulfonates under heading 340231, but importers should verify current CBP and Commerce Department order lists at the time of entry, as trade-remedy coverage can change. Origin documentation from the producer is advisable given the global sensitivity of this commodity.