1301.90.91.40 - Karaya

This HTS classification, specifically 1301.90.91.40, designates "Karaya" gum. Karaya gum, also known as Sterculia gum, is a dried exudate obtained from the sapwood of certain species of the Sterculia tree. It is characterized by its mucilaginous properties, forming a viscous solution in water, and is primarily used as a thickening, emulsifying, and stabilizing agent in various industrial and food applications. Its physical form is typically a powder or granules, ranging in color from white to reddish-brown depending on purity and processing.

Within the broader category of "Other" natural gums, resins, and oleoresins, Karaya gum is distinguished from its siblings by its botanical origin and specific chemical composition. For instance, "Balsams" (1301.90.91.05) are generally aromatic resinous substances, while "Bleached shellac" (1301.90.91.10) and "Seed lac" (1301.90.91.20) are derivatives of shellac, a resin secreted by the lac insect. "Tragacanth" (1301.90.91.30) is another important gum obtained from the roots of certain legumes, differing from Karaya in its source and gelling properties. The residual "Other" category (1301.90.91.90) encompasses any other natural gums, resins, or oleoresins not specifically enumerated.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subdivisions under HTS code 1301.90.91.40. Therefore, all shipments of Karaya gum, regardless of minor variations in processing or purity, will fall under this specific classification, provided they meet the general criteria for natural gums, resins, and oleoresins within Chapter 13. Classification will rely on the product's identification as Karaya gum and its exclusion from other more specific subheadings within the 1301.90.91 range.