HS Code 1521
Vegetable and Insect Waxes
HS code 1521 covers natural beeswax, insect waxes, and vegetable waxes such as carnauba and candelilla, whether or not refined or coloured.
4-digit Section IIILCL
HS Code 1521 — Vegetable and Insect Waxes
This code covers natural waxes including beeswax, other insect waxes, and vegetable waxes like Carnauba. These products are used in cosmetics, candle making, furniture polish, and food coatings.
What's included
- Carnauba wax
- Beeswax
- Candelilla wax
- Spermaceti
- Rice bran wax
What's excluded
- Paraffin wax → use
2712(Mineral waxes are in chapter 27.) - Sealing wax → use
3214(Manufactured preparations move to chapter 32.)
Common examples
- Raw beeswax blocks
- Carnauba wax flakes
- Purified white beeswax for cosmetics
- Candelilla wax for vegan lip balm
Frequently asked questions
Is soy wax included in 1521?
Usually no. Vegetable waxes in 1521 are non-triglycerides. Soy wax is often a hydrogenated oil and may fall under 1516.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0% - 6%
- Documentation: Health certificates may be required for beeswax used in food or pharmaceutical applications.
- Typical shipping mode: LCL
- Top exporters: Brazil, China, Germany, United States
- Top importers: United States, Germany, Japan, France
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Distinguishes natural biological waxes from mineral or synthetic chemical waxes.
Related HS codes
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