0908.21.00.00 - Neither crushed nor ground

This HTS category, 0908.21.00.00, specifically covers mace that is neither crushed nor ground. Mace is the aril, a lacy reddish covering, that surrounds the nutmeg seed. In this classification, the mace is presented in its whole or largely intact form, retaining its original physical structure before any processing that would break it down. This can include whole mace blades or large pieces.

It is important to distinguish this category from its sibling, 0908.22, which is designated for mace that has been crushed or ground. The key differentiating factor is the physical state of the product. While 0908.21.00.00 deals with mace in its unadulterated, whole form, 0908.22 encompasses mace that has undergone mechanical processing to reduce its size and texture, preparing it for different culinary or industrial applications.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 0908.21.00.00 is determined solely by the physical condition of the mace. Importers and exporters should ensure that the mace being declared is in its whole or uncrushed/unground state to accurately fall under this specific tariff provision.