1805.00.00.00 - Cocoa powder, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter

This HTS classification, 1805.00.00.00, specifically addresses cocoa powder that is pure and contains no added sugar or other sweetening agents. This means the product is essentially ground cocoa beans, devoid of any additives that would alter its sweetness. Its primary purpose is as a raw ingredient for further processing in the food industry, such as in the manufacturing of chocolate, confectionery, beverages, and baked goods where sweetness is controlled independently.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings within Chapter 18 is crucial. While other headings in Chapter 18 might cover cocoa beans, cocoa shells, cocoa paste, or even cocoa preparations with added sugar, 1805.00.00.00 is exclusively for the unsweetened, powdered form of cocoa. For example, if cocoa powder had sugar added, it would be classified under a different heading, likely within the cocoa preparations section where sweetening is a defining characteristic.

As a leaf node, this HTS code does not have further subdivisions. Therefore, the focus for classification within 1805.00.00.00 relies on confirming the absence of added sugars or sweetening matter. This can typically be verified through ingredient lists, laboratory analysis, or manufacturer declarations. The key differentiator remains the purity and unsweetened nature of the cocoa powder, setting it apart from more complex cocoa preparations or sweetened products.