1211.20 - Ginseng roots:

This HTS category, 1211.20, specifically covers Ginseng roots. Ginseng is a plant whose roots are highly valued for their medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Eastern medicine. The classification pertains to the roots themselves, regardless of whether they are fresh, dried, cut, crushed, or powdered.

When classifying goods under heading 1211, it is important to distinguish Ginseng roots from its siblings. For instance, 1211.30 covers Coca leaf, 1211.40 pertains to Poppy straw, 1211.50 is for Ephedra, and 1211.60 is for the bark of African cherry. While all these fall under the broader heading of plants used for medicinal purposes, their specific botanical parts and applications differentiate them for tariff purposes.

Within the Ginseng roots classification (1211.20), further subdivisions exist to account for the physical state of the roots. The subcategories 1211.20.10 for "Fresh or dried" and 1211.20.15.00 for "Chilled or frozen" allow for precise classification based on the preservation method employed. This distinction is crucial for determining applicable duties and import regulations.