Science and Customs Intertwined: Molecule of the Week: ‘Aloin’

The importance of tariffs in foreign trade is undeniable. The determination of a product’s tariff code requires diving into the most intricate details of the trade world and is also an eye-opening process. Each product having its own code is not only impressive but also serves as its identity in the international trade system.

In this incredible process, while learning in-depth about the chemical structures, applications, and production methods of products, we also touch upon aspects of security, customs, logistics, and strategy.

Being able to determine the correct tariff code for a product (whether it is a molecule, raw material, semi-finished product, or finished product) is like solving the unknown language of trade. For tariff specialists, it offers both the satisfaction of solving a technical puzzle and the joy of contemplating how that product will find its place in the international market.

So, what’s the most enjoyable or surprising part of this process?

In essence, tariff determination is very much like solving a technical puzzle. You carefully analyze the product’s structure, components, function, and areas of use, then place this information into the complex coding system of international trade. Every small detail forms an important part of the puzzle that should not be overlooked.

For instance:

• Is it chemical or biological?

• Is it raw material or a processed product?

• Is it a pharmaceutical component or cosmetic?

Sometimes, even a slight difference in classification can completely change a product’s commercial position and costs. This adds excitement to the process. When an import or export is done with the wrong code, unwanted delays or costs can arise at customs. Therefore, finding the correct code is not just a technical process but also a strategic game.

So, which part of solving this puzzle do you find most exciting? Is it the technical analysis of the product, or selecting the correct tariff code from thousands of HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes?

According to us, customs chemists, both aspects create their own excitement.

Sometimes, a complex molecule looks to us like a beautiful painting, much like the meaning carried by Pablo Picasso's artworks: “Those who know the value will understand.” This is the feeling we experienced while working on the tariff classification of the ‘Aloin’ molecule.

The Excitement of Solving a Technical Puzzle: The Adventure of Determining the HTS Code

As UGM Chemists, we closely follow scientific research and industrial developments in the field of chemistry. The American Chemical Society (ACS), based in the United States, is a scientific community and one of the largest in the world in terms of membership. It is a leading source of scientific information, offering access to numerous peer-reviewed journals, national conferences, and the Chemical Abstracts Service.

We proposed the Aloin molecule, for which we had worked on the HTS classification, to this community for the Molecule of the Week section. Our submission was accepted, and the article was published between January 20, 2025, and January 27, 2025, where it was permanently archived in the "Weekly Molecule" section of the website.

https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/a/aloin.html

What is Aloin and What Kind of Effects Does It Have?

The CAS number 1415-73-2, which corresponds to Aloin, has been assigned the HS Code 2938.90.90.90.19 as a result of our tariff studies. Accordingly, this substance is classified under the "pure organic chemicals" category in our Customs Tariff Schedule, and you will be required to pay a 20% VAT on the import of this product. Additionally, with this HS Code, you will also be informed about all other legal taxes and permits associated with this product.

Aloin, also known as barbaloin, is a bitter, yellow-brown compound found in the exudates of at least 68 Aloe species, constituting between 0.1% and 6.6% of the dry weight of their leaves (representing 3% to 35% of the total exudate). It is also present in unspecified amounts in 17 other species.

The compound is typically found in the vascular bundles adjacent to the cells in the aloe latex, which leaks out from beneath the leaf’s skin and between it and the gel. When dried, it has been used as a bittering agent in trade (such as in alcoholic beverages).

Sources of Natural Aloin:

• Aloin is primarily obtained from the sap of Aloe vera, Aloe ferox, and other Aloe species.

Applications:

• Cosmetic: Known for its moisturizing and restorative properties in skincare products.

• Natural Colorant: May be used in some food and beverages in limited amounts.

• Pharmaceutical: Aloin is primarily known for its strong laxative effect. It stimulates the smooth muscles of the colon, increasing peristaltic movements, which speeds up bowel activity. It has been used as a natural laxative for the treatment of constipation. However, excessive use can lead to bowel irritation or dehydration.

• Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Effects: Studies have shown that Aloin has antibacterial properties against certain bacteria and microorganisms.

• Effective Against: Gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli).

• Antioxidant Effects: Aloin acts as a powerful antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress. This effect is beneficial in delaying skin aging and reducing inflammatory processes.

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Aloin helps reduce pain and swelling by suppressing inflammation processes.

• Potential Anti-Cancer Effects: Some laboratory studies have suggested that Aloin may suppress the growth of certain cancer cells. Its mechanism may involve halting the cell cycle or initiating apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. However, research in this area is still in its early stages, and further studies are needed for clinical applications.

As a result of this valuable and meaningful tariff study, the "Aloin" compound was officially recognized as the "Molecule of the Week" by the American Chemical Society (ACS), marking the fusion of science, customs, and economics.