3823.19 - Other:

This category, HTS code 3823.19, encompasses industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids and acid oils derived from the refining of fats and oils, excluding specific acids already classified under preceding subheadings. It serves as a residual category for fatty acids that do not meet the precise definitions of stearic acid (3823.11), oleic acid (3823.12), or tall oil fatty acids (3823.13). The key distinguishing factor is the absence of these specifically identified fatty acids, meaning this classification applies to a broader range of other industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids.

The distinction from sibling categories is crucial for accurate classification. While stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid with a chain length of 18 carbons, and oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid also with 18 carbons, and tall oil fatty acids are a complex mixture derived from wood pulp processing, HTS 3823.19 covers other less common or more general industrial fatty acids. For instance, it could include lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, or blends of fatty acids not otherwise specified.

To further refine the classification of goods within 3823.19, subcategories are provided based on the origin of the fatty acids. Subheading 3823.19.20.00 specifically covers those derived from coconut, palm-kernel, or palm oil, which are notable for their higher proportions of saturated fatty acids like lauric and myristic acid. The remaining products, which may originate from other vegetable or animal sources, or are mixtures not attributable to the specifically listed oils, fall under the residual subheading 3823.19.40.00.