Harmonized System Codes • Schedule B • Harmonized Commodity Description

HS Code 17021900: Understanding Lactose and its Trade Regulations

Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is a carbohydrate found in milk and milk products. It is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for its sweetening properties and as a filler or bulking agent. HS Code 17021900 specifically refers to lactose and lactose syrup containing less than 99% lactose, calculated on the dry matter.

Product Description

Under HS Code 17021900, lactose and lactose syrup are classified based on their lactose content. The product must contain less than 99% lactose, calculated on the dry matter. This classification ensures that only products meeting the specified criteria fall under this HS code.

Bound / MFN Duty Rate

The bound / most-favored-nation (MFN) duty rate for HS Code 17021900 is 6.4%. This means that every time a country lowers a trade barrier or opens up a market, it must apply the same duty rate of 6.4% for the import of lactose and lactose syrup from all its trading partners.

Quantity Unit

The quantity unit for import and export of lactose and lactose syrup under HS Code 17021900 is kilograms (KG). This unit is used to measure the weight of the product being traded.

Special Tariff Preference Programs

Several special tariff preference programs exist for the import of lactose and lactose syrup under HS Code 17021900. These programs offer reduced or duty-free treatment for certain countries. Here are some examples:

• Free: Imports from least-developed beneficiary developing countries eligible for Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) under that subheading receive duty-free treatment.
• Bahrain Special Rate: Bahrain has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• NAFTA for Canada: Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), imports from Canada receive duty-free treatment.
• Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Imports from eligible African countries receive duty-free treatment.
• Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI): Imports from eligible Caribbean countries receive duty-free treatment.
• Israel Special Rate: Israel has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA): Imports from eligible Andean countries receive duty-free treatment.
• Jordan Special Rate: Jordan has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• NAFTA for Mexico: Under NAFTA, imports from Mexico receive duty-free treatment.
• Oman Special Rate: Oman has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Dominican Republic-Central American Special Rate (DR-CAFTA): Imports from eligible countries under the DR-CAFTA receive duty-free treatment.
• Peru Special Rate: Peru has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Singapore Special Rate: Singapore has a special rate for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Australia Special Rate: Australia has a special rate of 4.2% for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Chile Special Rate: Chile has a special rate of 1.9% for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.
• Morocco Special Rate: Morocco has a special rate of 3.7% for the import of lactose and lactose syrup.

Importing and Exporting US States

HS Code 17021900 applies to lactose and lactose syrup imported and exported by various US states. These states engage in trade activities involving lactose products with both domestic and international partners.

Understanding HS Code 17021900 is crucial for importers, exporters, and other stakeholders in the lactose industry. It helps ensure compliance with trade regulations and allows for the smooth flow of goods across borders. By knowing the specific requirements and duty rates associated with this HS code, businesses can make informed decisions and optimize their trade activities.