.png)
Customs Clearance of Surfactants (Surface-Active Agents) in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)
Customs clearance of surfactants (surface-active agents) Surfactants—also known as surface-active agents—are a class of chemical compounds that, due to their ability to reduce surface tension between liquids or between a liquid and a solid, have widespread applications across various industries. These materials are divided into four main categories: anionic, cationic, amphoteric, and nonionic; each is used in different industries depending on its chemical structure and application. From detergents and cosmetics to oil and gas, the presence of surfactants is indispensable. For companies in Iran that need to import these substances, the customs clearance of surfactants is one of the critical stages, requiring technical knowledge and familiarity with customs regulations.
Surfactants (surface-active agents) are chemical compounds that, with their ability to reduce surface tension between two phases (liquid–liquid, liquid–solid, or liquid–gas), have found numerous applications in diverse industries. They play a prominent role in industries such as detergents, cosmetics and personal care, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, textiles, paints and coatings, and even the food industry. Owing to their wide-ranging applications and the sensitivities in producing and using surfactants, clearing these materials from customs—especially for importing companies—is highly important and requires strict compliance with customs laws and regulations, obtaining the necessary permits, and completing clearance documentation.
For estimating the time and cost of surfactants clearance, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Immediate Free Consultation1) Types of Surfactants and Their Applications
Surfactants are divided into four main categories, each used in different industries depending on molecular structure and chemical properties:
1. Anionic Surfactants
This type has a negative charge in the hydrophilic portion of the molecule. Owing to their strong ability to reduce the surface tension of water and boost cleaning efficiency, they are used in powerful and industrial detergents. Key applications include: laundry and dishwashing detergents: high cleaning power; industrial cleaners: removing heavy grease and contaminants. Anionic surfactants, thanks to abundant foam generation and performance in harsh environments (hard or contaminated water), are widely used in producing household and industrial detergents.
2. Cationic Surfactants
These have a positive charge and, due to antimicrobial and softening properties, are used mostly in hair-care products, fabric softeners, and hygienic disinfectant products. Notable applications include: fabric softeners: maintaining softness and smoothness; disinfectant products: used in pharmaceutical and hygiene industries; hair care: forming a protective layer on hair and preventing damage. Owing to their antimicrobial properties, they are very important in pharma and hygiene industries and are used in disinfectant formulations.
3. Nonionic Surfactants
Nonionic surfactants lack an electrical charge and—because they are milder than other surfactants—are used in cosmetics and personal care, the food industry, and oil and gas. Applications include: shampoos and skin creams: low irritation and mildness; emulsifiers in the food industry: combining hydrophilic and lipophilic materials; oil and gas: improving extraction and drilling efficiency. Owing to the absence of charge, nonionics can be used in both acidic and alkaline environments and increase formulation stability.
4. Amphoteric Surfactants
Depending on the pH, this group can carry a positive or negative charge and therefore can help adjust pH and be used in sensitive hygiene products such as shampoos and skincare items. Major applications include: shampoo and body-wash products: suitable for sensitive skin; care and hygiene products with mild pH: preventing skin irritation. Thanks to their adaptability to different environments, amphoterics are used in producing gentle and sensitive cosmetic and hygiene products.
2) Key Points in Clearing Surfactants
Clearing surfactants from customs is one of the most sensitive stages of importing these materials because, due to their chemical compositions and varied applications, they may face legal restrictions and specific regulations. Key items to consider include:
1. Customs Tariff (HS Code)
Each type of surfactant has a specific HS (customs tariff) code that must be entered correctly in the customs declaration. These codes play a crucial role in determining duty rates and import taxes. Some important codes include:
3402.11: anionic surfactants, most used in industrial detergents.
3402.19: nonionic surfactants used in cosmetics and food industries.
3402.90: other surface-active agents not included in the above categories. Incorrect HS code entry can lead to legal issues and customs penalties.
Therefore, choosing the correct HS Code for each imported surfactant is essential.
3402.11: anionic surfactants, most used in industrial detergents.
3402.19: nonionic surfactants used in cosmetics and food industries.
3402.90: other surface-active agents not included in the above categories. Incorrect HS code entry can lead to legal issues and customs penalties.
Therefore, choosing the correct HS Code for each imported surfactant is essential.
2. Required Documents and Permits for Clearing Surfactants
Clearing surfactants from customs requires submitting documents and permits that vary depending on product type and country of origin. Some of the most important include:
1. Health and Environmental Certificates
Because surfactants are recognized as chemicals, their import requires obtaining health and environmental permits from relevant authorities such as the Department of Environment and the Ministry of Health. These permits ensure imported materials comply with domestic and international safety and health standards. The aim is to control risks from chemical use and prevent adverse impacts on the environment and human health.
2. Chemical Analysis Report
To ensure the quality and chemical composition of imported materials, providing a chemical analysis report is essential. This report includes a detailed analysis of the imported surfactants and must conform to the destination country’s customs and industrial standards. Failure to provide this report may delay clearance and create legal problems.
3. Permit from the National Standards Organization
Importing surfactants—especially for cosmetics, personal care, and food industries—requires approval from the National Standards Organization. Based on specific consumer-safety and product-quality criteria, this organization issues the necessary approvals. In addition, some surfactants used as food emulsifiers must comply with international food standards such as the Codex Alimentarius.
1. Health and Environmental Certificates
Because surfactants are recognized as chemicals, their import requires obtaining health and environmental permits from relevant authorities such as the Department of Environment and the Ministry of Health. These permits ensure imported materials comply with domestic and international safety and health standards. The aim is to control risks from chemical use and prevent adverse impacts on the environment and human health.
2. Chemical Analysis Report
To ensure the quality and chemical composition of imported materials, providing a chemical analysis report is essential. This report includes a detailed analysis of the imported surfactants and must conform to the destination country’s customs and industrial standards. Failure to provide this report may delay clearance and create legal problems.
3. Permit from the National Standards Organization
Importing surfactants—especially for cosmetics, personal care, and food industries—requires approval from the National Standards Organization. Based on specific consumer-safety and product-quality criteria, this organization issues the necessary approvals. In addition, some surfactants used as food emulsifiers must comply with international food standards such as the Codex Alimentarius.
3. Import Restrictions for Surfactants
Some surfactants, due to environmental impacts or human health risks, may be subject to specific import restrictions. For example, surfactants containing alkylphenol ethoxylates (APE) used in detergents face import restrictions due to environmental harm. Likewise, phosphate-containing surfactants—which can lead to water pollution—may be banned or tightly regulated in some countries.
3) Exporting/Importing Countries, Trade Volume, and Market Turnover
Exporting and importing countries of surfactants worldwide The global trade of surfactants is large and dynamic owing to their key role in many industries. Exporters and importers in this trade are divided based on production capability and industrial consumption needs.
Exporting countries:
China: the largest exporter of surfactants globally. Mass production and access to low-cost raw materials have made China the market leader.
Germany: as one of the most advanced countries in chemical production, Germany is also a key exporter of surfactants.
United States: with the world’s largest chemical industry, the U.S. is not only a consumer but also an exporter of surfactants.
Japan and South Korea: due to advanced technological capabilities and high-quality production, these two Asian countries have a significant global market share.
Germany: as one of the most advanced countries in chemical production, Germany is also a key exporter of surfactants.
United States: with the world’s largest chemical industry, the U.S. is not only a consumer but also an exporter of surfactants.
Japan and South Korea: due to advanced technological capabilities and high-quality production, these two Asian countries have a significant global market share.
Importing countries:
India: due to the development of the detergents and cosmetics industries, India is one of the largest importers of surfactants.
Brazil: driven by growth in oil and gas and the need for specialized drilling surfactants, Brazil is a major importer.
Iran: owing to reliance on oil and gas, cosmetics and personal care, and detergents industries, Iran is one of the main surfactant importers in the Middle East.
Brazil: driven by growth in oil and gas and the need for specialized drilling surfactants, Brazil is a major importer.
Iran: owing to reliance on oil and gas, cosmetics and personal care, and detergents industries, Iran is one of the main surfactant importers in the Middle East.
Volume of Surfactant Imports and Exports to Iran
With the growing development of petrochemical, cosmetics and personal care, and detergents industries in Iran, demand for surfactants is steadily rising. Recent statistics indicate that imports of surfactants into Iran—especially from China, Germany, and Türkiye—have increased in recent years. According to official figures, Iran’s surfactant import value reaches millions of dollars annually, and this trend is rising. On the other hand, Iran—being a producer of detergents and cosmetics in the region—exports a portion of domestically produced surfactants to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other neighboring countries. However, exports of processed surfactants from Iran are less than imports, and most domestic needs are covered through imports.
Global Turnover of Surfactants
The global surfactants market grows steadily each year, with financial turnover reaching billions of dollars. Market reports show that demand is increasing due to the expansion of consuming industries such as detergents, cosmetics and personal care, and oil and gas. Forecasts indicate average annual growth of 5–7% through 2030.
4) Required Documents for Clearing Surfactants
To clear surfactants (surface-active agents) from customs, a set of documents is required that varies by product type and country of origin.
1. Customs Declaration
The customs declaration is one of the most important clearance documents and includes information such as product type, value, weight, country of origin, and final destination. The relevant HS (tariff) code for the surfactant must be entered precisely. Selecting and entering this code correctly directly affects clearance speed and helps avoid legal issues.
2. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is issued by the seller and includes price, quantity, and product description. It is essential for calculating customs duties and determining import costs.
3. Packing List
The packing list shows details of how the goods are packed, including the number of packages, dimensions, and weight of each package. It helps customs verify and match imported goods with declared shipments.
4. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier, the bill of lading includes transport mode, origin, destination, and shipment information. Without a bill of lading, clearance is not possible.
5. Health and Environmental Certificates
Due to the chemical nature of surfactants, imports require health and environmental certificates from bodies such as the Department of Environment and the Ministry of Health. These ensure the products comply with national health and environmental standards.
6. Chemical Analysis Report
To ensure quality and composition, a chemical analysis report must be provided. Issued by accredited laboratories, it includes precise chemical constituents. Without this report, clearance is likely to be delayed.
7. Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin indicates the country where the imported goods were produced. Issued by the origin country’s chamber of commerce, it affects tariff determination and eligibility for trade-agreement preferences.
8. Health and Standards Approvals
For surfactants used in cosmetics, personal care, and food, approvals from the National Standards Organization and the Ministry of Health are mandatory. These ensure the product enters the market in compliance with national and international standards.
9. REACH and Other International Approvals
If surfactants are imported from European countries, specific certifications such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) may be required. This ensures the substance complies with EU environmental and safety standards.
10. Import License
Depending on the surfactant type and importing country, an import license from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade may be required. This license indicates official approval to import the goods.
11. Compliance with Dangerous Goods Transport Regulations
If the imported surfactant is classified as hazardous, an MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) must be provided. This includes safety information, transport methods, and safe storage guidelines.
12. Bank Release Permit
If imports are conducted via letter of credit or foreign exchange remittance, a bank release permit must be obtained. It confirms that import payments have been properly settled.
13. International Approvals
For specific applications such as food or pharmaceuticals, additional approvals like FDA or GMP may be required.
1. Customs Declaration
The customs declaration is one of the most important clearance documents and includes information such as product type, value, weight, country of origin, and final destination. The relevant HS (tariff) code for the surfactant must be entered precisely. Selecting and entering this code correctly directly affects clearance speed and helps avoid legal issues.
2. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is issued by the seller and includes price, quantity, and product description. It is essential for calculating customs duties and determining import costs.
3. Packing List
The packing list shows details of how the goods are packed, including the number of packages, dimensions, and weight of each package. It helps customs verify and match imported goods with declared shipments.
4. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier, the bill of lading includes transport mode, origin, destination, and shipment information. Without a bill of lading, clearance is not possible.
5. Health and Environmental Certificates
Due to the chemical nature of surfactants, imports require health and environmental certificates from bodies such as the Department of Environment and the Ministry of Health. These ensure the products comply with national health and environmental standards.
6. Chemical Analysis Report
To ensure quality and composition, a chemical analysis report must be provided. Issued by accredited laboratories, it includes precise chemical constituents. Without this report, clearance is likely to be delayed.
7. Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin indicates the country where the imported goods were produced. Issued by the origin country’s chamber of commerce, it affects tariff determination and eligibility for trade-agreement preferences.
8. Health and Standards Approvals
For surfactants used in cosmetics, personal care, and food, approvals from the National Standards Organization and the Ministry of Health are mandatory. These ensure the product enters the market in compliance with national and international standards.
9. REACH and Other International Approvals
If surfactants are imported from European countries, specific certifications such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) may be required. This ensures the substance complies with EU environmental and safety standards.
10. Import License
Depending on the surfactant type and importing country, an import license from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade may be required. This license indicates official approval to import the goods.
11. Compliance with Dangerous Goods Transport Regulations
If the imported surfactant is classified as hazardous, an MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) must be provided. This includes safety information, transport methods, and safe storage guidelines.
12. Bank Release Permit
If imports are conducted via letter of credit or foreign exchange remittance, a bank release permit must be obtained. It confirms that import payments have been properly settled.
13. International Approvals
For specific applications such as food or pharmaceuticals, additional approvals like FDA or GMP may be required.
5) The Best Way to Clear Surfactants from Iranian Customs
To accelerate and reduce risk:
1) Determine HS precisely (Chapter 34; headings 3402.11/3402.19/3402.90) based on COA/MSDS and end use
2) Obtain health/environment/standards approvals according to grade (industrial/cosmetic/food)
3) Timely order registration in the National Trade System and full preparation of origin/transport documents
4) Coordinate for sampling/testing if required by customs or agencies
5) Calculate duties and taxes accurately and follow up continuously until the green permit is issued
1) Determine HS precisely (Chapter 34; headings 3402.11/3402.19/3402.90) based on COA/MSDS and end use
2) Obtain health/environment/standards approvals according to grade (industrial/cosmetic/food)
3) Timely order registration in the National Trade System and full preparation of origin/transport documents
4) Coordinate for sampling/testing if required by customs or agencies
5) Calculate duties and taxes accurately and follow up continuously until the green permit is issued
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Anionic surfactants | Major use in industrial/household detergents | 3402.11 |
| Nonionic surfactants | Cosmetics/food/oil & gas | 3402.19 |
| Other surface-active agents | Outside the above headings | 3402.90 |
Final classification depends on composition, component percentages, usage grade (industrial/personal care/food), end use, and technical documents.
Need precise HS Code determination, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma Invoice RequestFrequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for surfactants?
Depending on type: 3402.11 (anionic), 3402.19 (nonionic), and 3402.90 (others). Final determination is based on COA/MSDS and application.
What permits are required for import?
According to usage grade: approvals from the Ministry of Health, Environmental authorities, and the National Standards Organization; for the EU, REACH may be required.
Which countries are the main exporters or importers?
Exporters: China, Germany, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. Importers: India, Brazil, Iran, and other industrially demanding countries in the region.
Multimedia Suggestions
- Image file name:
surfactants-customs-clearance-iran.jpg - Alt Text: Customs clearance of surfactants in Iran | HS 3402
- Caption: «Surfactant clearance checklist: HS, permits, COA/MSDS»
- Infographic: «Types (anionic/cationic/nonionic/amphoteric) and permit pathway»
Suggested Links
Summary and Call to Action
Clearing surfactants requires experience due to the diversity of compositions, safety/standards requirements, and environmental sensitivities. Saba Tarkhis, with regulatory knowledge and an operational network, advances your process quickly and in full compliance with the law.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Customs Clearance ProformaSpecialized Customs Services by Saba Brokerage
Saba Brokerage is one of the most reputable specialized groups in clearing chemicals—especially surfactants. To facilitate clearance and provide comprehensive services to clients, we offer several specialized services to importers:
Specialized consulting on tariffs and required permits: Our expert team, with extensive experience in chemical imports, helps importers select the appropriate HS codes and stay informed about the latest changes and new regulations. This consulting also includes reviewing standards and environmental/health requirements related to imported goods.
Follow-up of customs documents and permits: One of the key challenges in clearance is obtaining and tracking necessary permits from relevant bodies. Our group fully undertakes this responsibility and promptly follows and secures all required documents and permits.
Facilitating clearance and reducing costs: Leveraging technical knowledge and experience in customs law, our team strives to optimize the clearance process and minimize extra costs. Our strong relationships with customs authorities ensure goods are cleared without delay.
Accurate and up-to-date reporting: We regularly inform clients about document status and clearance stages. These reports assure clients that clearance is proceeding smoothly and in full compliance with regulations.
With these services, you can be confident that your goods will be cleared quickly, efficiently, and at the lowest possible cost.
