1511.10.00.00 - Crude oil

This HTS category, 1511.10.00.00, specifically covers crude palm oil and its fractions. "Crude" signifies that the oil is in its unrefined state, typically derived directly from the pressing of the fruit of the oil palm tree. This classification is applicable to palm oil that has not undergone any chemical modification, such as esterification, inter-esterification, re-esterification, or Elision. It represents the rawest form of palm oil and its primary fractions before further processing for specific commercial uses.

The key distinction of this category from its sibling, 1511.90.00.00 ("Other"), lies in the state of refinement and the presence of fractions. While 1511.90.00.00 would encompass refined palm oil, further processed fractions, or mixtures of fractions not falling under the crude classification, 1511.10.00.00 is strictly for the unrefined, crude product. This means any significant purification, bleaching, deodorizing, or modification of chemical structure would necessitate classification under a different heading.

As 1511.10.00.00 is a leaf node, it has no further subcategories. Classification within this heading is determined by the commodity itself being crude palm oil or its direct, unrefined fractions. Practical examples would include the bulk oil extracted directly from palm fruit processing that has not been subjected to refining processes designed to remove impurities, color, odor, or modify its fatty acid profile. The focus is on the initial, raw output of the oil palm.