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SITCSection 5
U.S. imports of basic dyes and preparations (SITC 53113) totaled $2.3M in April 2026, traded with 16 countries.
Importers of Basic Dyes and Preparations paid $168K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 10% on $1.7M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Basic Dyes and Preparations imports of $2.3M in April 2026 ran 23% above the year-to-date monthly average of $1.9M.
Last updated: April 2026 dataBasic dyes carry a cationic charge that gives them exceptional affinity for acrylic fibers and, historically, for unmodified cellulosic substrates treated with a mordant. Their brilliance and high tinctorial strength make them widely used in paper coloring, leather finishing, and inkjet ink formulations in addition to textiles. Preparations under this heading often include leveling agents and pH buffers that are integral to the dyeing process, and the presence of such auxiliaries at significant concentrations can complicate classification at the heading boundary.
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Acrylic fibers contain anionic sulfonate groups introduced during polymerization that form strong ionic bonds with the positively charged (cationic) chromophores in basic dyes. This affinity produces very bright, high-saturation shades that are difficult to achieve with other dye classes on acrylic substrates.
When a preparation contains significant quantities of auxiliaries such as leveling agents or dispersants, the classification depends on which component imparts the essential character. If the dye remains the primary functional ingredient, the preparation typically stays within the basic dyes heading; however, if auxiliary content is dominant by weight or value, reclassification to a surface-active or auxiliary chemical heading may be warranted. Consulting a licensed customs broker is advisable for borderline formulations.
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Monthly import values over time