3402.90 - Other:

This category, HTS Code 3402.90, encompasses "Other" organic surface-active agents, surface-active preparations, washing preparations, and cleaning preparations that do not fall under the more specific subheadings within heading 3402. This includes products that are not solely anionic or other specified organic surface-active agents when sold for retail, and also excludes preparations specifically put up for retail sale. The primary function of these goods is typically to reduce surface tension, facilitating the mixing of immiscible liquids, or to act as detergents or cleaning agents.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. Unlike the "Anionic organic surface-active agents" or "Other organic surface-active agents" categories, which specify the chemical nature of the surface-active agent itself, 3402.90 covers broader preparations or residual classifications. Furthermore, it is distinct from "Preparations put up for retail sale" (3402.50), which specifically targets consumer-ready packaging and marketing, regardless of the composition of the cleaning or washing agent.

Within this "Other" category, further subdivisions exist to refine classification. The primary subcategory is "Synthetic detergents," which specifically covers cleaning agents formulated with synthetic organic surface-active agents designed for laundering and general cleaning. The existence of "Other" as a further subdivision indicates that there may be residual items that do not fit the definition of synthetic detergents but still fall under the broader scope of non-retail sale washing, cleaning, or surface-active preparations not otherwise specified.