Other Organic Surface-Active Agents (Amphoteric and Remaining Types)

Cocamidopropyl betaine is an amphoteric surfactant that does not carry a permanent charge and is not anionic, cationic, or nonionic in the strict sense. It is generally classified under heading 340249 — specifically 3402499000 as a non-aromatic organic surface-active agent NESOI. Because CAPB is derived from coconut oil and has a modified amide structure, confirming its aromatic or non-aromatic character via a technical data sheet is important for line selection.

Heading 340249 covers the active surfactant compound itself — even if diluted in water or a carrier — when it is not blended with builders, chelating agents, fragrances, or other functional additives that would make it a 'preparation.' Once the product is a formulated mixture designed for a specific cleaning or washing application, it transitions to heading 3402.50 (retail) or 3402.90 (non-retail) as a preparation. The degree of formulation and the presence of non-surfactant functional ingredients are the key classification factors.