Mint Magic: Lab Seeks Duty-Free Oil Blends in Washington Zone
Published Date: 2/23/2026
Notice
Summary
Essex Laboratories in Chehalis, Washington, wants to start making special mint oil blends inside Foreign-Trade Zone 216. This move could save them money on import duties for certain ingredients, with public comments open until April 6, 2026. If approved, it means smoother, cheaper production for these refreshing products!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Essex Labs Seeks FTZ Production in WA
Essex Laboratories in Chehalis, Washington, has applied to make mint oil blends inside Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) 216. The company says producing under FTZ procedures could save money on import duties for certain ingredients used in those products.
Duty Rate Ranges for Products and Inputs
The notice lists proposed finished mint oil products with duty rates ranging from duty-free to 4.2%, and foreign-status input materials with duty rates ranging from duty-free to 5.5%. If these items enter FTZ 216 under the proposed activity, those duty ranges apply to the listed products and components.
Some Inputs Need Privileged FTZ Status
The notice says certain materials are subject to duties under section 1702(a)(1)(B) of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act or section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, depending on country of origin. Those decisions require such merchandise to be admitted to FTZs in privileged foreign status under 19 CFR 146.41.
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