HS Code 3402.90: Detergents & Cleaning Agents in Hong Kong

HS Code 3402.90 is a crucial identifier within the Harmonized System for a wide array of surface-active agents, detergent, and cleaning preparations. For businesses engaged in the import and export of these essential goods through Hong Kong, understanding this specific HS code is paramount for accurate customs declarations, tariff assessments, and regulatory compliance. This guide delves into the specifics of HS Code 3402.90, its implications for traders in Hong Kong, and how Maiyam Group can provide comprehensive support for your commodity sourcing and logistics needs. Accurate classification is the bedrock of efficient international trade, ensuring your operations run smoothly.

In the intricate world of global commerce, the precise classification of goods using the Harmonized System (HS) is non-negotiable. HS Code 3402.90 specifically categorizes a significant segment of cleaning agents and surface-active compounds. For businesses operating within or trading through Hong Kong, a major international logistics and financial hub, mastering this code is vital for ensuring compliance and optimizing trade flows. This article aims to illuminate the significance of HS Code 3402.90, especially for those involved in the detergent and cleaning products sector trading in Hong Kong, including operations in areas like Causeway Bay. Maiyam Group, a leader in mineral and commodity trading, understands the critical role accurate HS codes play in facilitating global business, ensuring integrity and efficiency from mine to market.

Understanding HS Code 3402.90

HS Code 3402.90 falls under Chapter 34 of the Harmonized System, which covers ‘Soap, organic surface-active agents, washing preparations, lubricating preparations, artificial waxes, prepared waxes, polishing or scouring preparations, candles and similar articles, modelling pastes, ‘dental waxes’ and dental preparations with a basis of plaster’. Heading 3402 specifically deals with ‘Organic surface-active agents, washing preparations (including auxiliary washing preparations) and cleaning preparations, whether or not containing soap, other than those of heading 3401.’ Subheading 3402.90 then covers ‘Other’ organic surface-active agents and preparations within this category.

This classification is broad, encompassing a vast range of products used in both industrial and household applications. It includes detergents for laundry, dishwashing liquids, industrial cleaners, emulsifiers, wetting agents, and other surface-active agents that modify surface tension. For businesses importing or exporting these products via Hong Kong, accurate use of HS Code 3402.90 is critical. It dictates import duties (though often low in Hong Kong), triggers potential requirements for safety data sheets (SDS), and ensures compliance with Hong Kong’s consumer protection and environmental regulations. Misclassification can lead to substantial fines, shipment delays, and reputational damage. Maiyam Group, committed to upholding the highest standards in commodity trading, ensures meticulous classification for all products handled, providing a foundation of trust and compliance.

The Logic of Harmonized System Codes

The Harmonized System (HS) is a globally standardized nomenclature system used for classifying traded products. Developed and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it provides a common language for customs authorities worldwide. The system uses a hierarchical structure, typically starting with two-digit chapter numbers, followed by four-digit headings, and then six-digit subheadings. Many countries, including Hong Kong, extend this system with additional digits (often eight or ten) to create more detailed national classifications for statistical purposes and to set specific tariff rates or regulatory controls.

For HS Code 3402.90:

• Chapter 34: Soap, organic surface-active agents, washing preparations…
• Heading 3402: Organic surface-active agents, washing preparations…
• Subheading 3402.90: Other

Businesses trading through Hong Kong must adhere to the specific national subdivisions required by Hong Kong Customs. This level of detail ensures that products are correctly identified for tax purposes, safety inspections, and trade statistics. Maiyam Group’s dedication to precise classification ensures that clients trading through major hubs like Hong Kong benefit from efficient and compliant operations, regardless of the commodity type.

Implications for Hong Kong Trade

Hong Kong’s position as a global logistics powerhouse makes it a strategic entry point for a wide range of products, including detergents and cleaning agents classified under HS Code 3402.90. Accurate HS code application is essential for leveraging Hong Kong’s efficient port facilities and streamlined customs procedures. Correct classification ensures that goods are processed rapidly, minimizing logistical costs and lead times, which is particularly important for high-volume consumer goods like cleaning products. Businesses located in or trading via areas like Causeway Bay, Kowloon, or the New Territories rely on this efficiency for competitive market access.

Maiyam Group provides robust support for international trade, ensuring that all commodities, including those falling under HS Code 3402.90, are handled with the utmost accuracy and compliance. Our global reach and understanding of international trade norms empower our clients to navigate complex markets effectively. We are committed to providing reliable commodity trading services that uphold the highest industry benchmarks, reinforcing our role as a premier partner.

Customs Procedures and Duty Rates

While Hong Kong maintains a free port policy with minimal customs duties on most imported goods, the correct HS Code 3402.90 is still vital. It is used by customs authorities for statistical tracking, identifying goods that may require specific safety or environmental compliance checks, and for enforcing trade regulations. Although direct duties on many cleaning agents might be low or non-existent, accurate classification ensures that products meet Hong Kong’s standards for consumer safety and environmental protection. This includes compliance with labeling requirements and potentially providing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for certain chemical formulations.

Maiyam Group ensures that all documentation and declarations, including those pertaining to HS Code 3402.90, are meticulously prepared. Our expertise helps clients avoid potential delays or penalties, ensuring that their products move efficiently through Hong Kong’s customs channels. This diligence is a testament to our commitment to providing seamless commodity trading services, supporting businesses across various sectors.

Global Reach and Maiyam Group

The market for detergents and cleaning agents is global and consistently in demand. HS Code 3402.90 plays a crucial role in tracking the international trade flows of these products, informing market analysis, and guiding policy decisions. For companies aiming for global reach, precise HS code utilization is key to unlocking new markets and ensuring consistent compliance. Hong Kong serves as an ideal hub for such global operations due to its advanced infrastructure and business-friendly environment.

As a leader in mineral and commodity trading, Maiyam Group connects diverse global markets with high-quality resources. Our expertise spans a wide range of industrial commodities, and we understand the critical importance of accurate HS code classification, such as for HS Code 3402.90. We provide clients with reliable supply chain management, ethical sourcing, and stringent quality assurance. Whether dealing with base metals, precious metals, or industrial chemicals, Maiyam Group ensures every transaction adheres to the highest international standards, facilitating seamless global trade.

Commitment to Excellence and Compliance

Maiyam Group prides itself on delivering customized solutions that combine deep geological knowledge with advanced supply chain management. This integrated approach ensures that transactions are seamless from the point of origin to the final market. We understand that businesses rely on consistent supply, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance, especially when trading products like those classified under HS Code 3402.90. Our operations are strictly compliant with international trade standards and environmental regulations, providing our clients with confidence and security.

Our comprehensive portfolio includes base metals, precious metals, gemstones, and industrial minerals, making us a versatile partner for diverse industrial needs. We offer certified quality assurance for all specifications, direct access to premier mining operations, and streamlined logistics management. Maiyam Group is committed to being Africa’s Premier Precious Metal & Industrial Mineral Export Partner, delivering premium minerals from Africa to global industries with unparalleled professionalism and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions About HS Code 3402.90

Conclusion: Streamlining Trade with HS Code 3402.90 in Hong Kong

Mastering the classification and trade of detergents and cleaning agents under HS Code 3402.90 is essential for businesses operating in the dynamic Hong Kong market. Accurate application of this code ensures compliance with customs procedures, facilitates efficient logistics, and upholds regulatory standards for consumer and environmental safety. As a vital international trade hub, Hong Kong’s streamlined processes depend on precise HS code identification. Maiyam Group is dedicated to supporting your business by providing expert guidance in commodity classification and logistics management. While our core expertise lies in minerals and metals, our commitment to global trade integrity means we ensure all transactions, including those involving products like those under HS Code 3402.90, are handled with the highest degree of professionalism and compliance. We are your trusted partner for premium quality minerals and seamless global supply chains, reinforcing our slogan: ‘Premium Minerals From Africa To Global Industries’.

Key Takeaways:

• HS Code 3402.90 covers a broad range of detergents, cleaning agents, and surface-active compounds.
• Accurate classification is critical for customs compliance, regulatory adherence, and efficient trade in Hong Kong.
• While Hong Kong is largely duty-free, compliance with safety and environmental standards is mandatory.
• Maiyam Group offers expert support in commodity classification and logistics for global trade.
• Leveraging Hong Kong’s trade infrastructure requires meticulous attention to HS code details and product regulations.

Ready to optimize your trade operations for products under HS Code 3402.90? Partner with Maiyam Group for expert commodity classification and streamlined logistics. Contact us today to ensure your cleaning and detergent products navigate the global market with ease and compliance.