0902.30.00 - Black tea (fermented) and partly fermented tea, in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3 kg

This HTS category, 0902.30.00, specifically covers black tea and partly fermented tea when presented in immediate packings that do not exceed 3 kilograms in weight. Black tea, often referred to as fully fermented tea, undergoes a complete oxidation process during its manufacture, resulting in its characteristic dark color and robust flavor profile. Partly fermented teas, while not fully oxidized like black tea, have undergone a fermentation process that distinguishes them from green teas. The critical factor for classification under this code is the weight of the immediate packaging.

It is important to differentiate this classification from its siblings. HTS codes 0902.10 and 0902.20 exclusively deal with green tea, which is defined by its lack of fermentation. Furthermore, the sibling category 0902.40.00.00 pertains to "other" black and partly fermented teas, implying they are either not in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3 kg or fall outside the specific parameters of 0902.30.00.

Within this category, further distinctions are made to refine the classification. The subcategory "In tea bags" addresses black and partly fermented teas that are individually packaged in small, porous bags, a common format for single servings. The "Other" subcategory captures all remaining black and partly fermented teas meeting the weight criteria but not presented in tea bags, encompassing loose leaf tea or larger pre-packaged formats up to 3 kg. This hierarchical structure allows for precise tariff application based on both the type of tea and its packaging presentation.