0904.12.00.00 - Crushed or ground

This HTS classification, 0904.12.00.00, specifically covers pepper of the genus Piper that has been either crushed or ground. This designation applies to black pepper, white pepper, and green pepper (all derived from the Piper nigrum plant) that have undergone processing to break down their physical structure. The processing can range from coarse crushing to fine grinding, resulting in a powder or granulated form ready for culinary or industrial use.

Distinguishing this category from its sibling, 0904.11.00, is crucial. While both fall under pepper of the genus Piper, 0904.11.00 pertains exclusively to "neither crushed nor ground" pepper. This means whole peppercorns, whether dried or not, would be classified under 0904.11.00, whereas any form of processed Piper pepper falls within the scope of 0904.12.00.00. The physical state of the pepper is the primary differentiator.

As this node represents a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 0904.12.00.00 is final once it is determined that the product is pepper of the genus Piper and it is in a crushed or ground form. Practical classification considerations would focus on verifying the botanical origin (genus Piper) and confirming the physical processing that renders the pepper in a non-whole state.