1806.32.16.00 - Containing less than 21 percent by weight of milk solids

This HTS category, 1806.32.16.00, encompasses chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa that are presented in blocks, slabs, or bars. Specifically, it covers those products which contain less than 21 percent by weight of milk solids. These preparations are further defined as consisting wholly of ground cocoa beans, potentially with added cocoa fat, flavoring, or emulsifying agents. A key characteristic is their composition, containing not more than 32 percent by weight of butterfat or other milk solids (distinct from the general 21% threshold for this specific code) and not more than 60 percent by weight of sugar.

The distinction between this category and its sibling, 1806.32.18.00 "Other," lies in the precise percentage of milk solids. While both fall under preparations in blocks, slabs, or bars, and contain butterfat or other milk solids not for retail candy, 1806.32.16.00 is specifically for those with a milk solid content *under 21 percent*. Sibling categories at this level would therefore capture products with different milk solid percentages or other defining characteristics not met by this subcategory.

As a leaf node, this category does not have further subdivisions. Therefore, classification into this code is definitive based on meeting all the preceding criteria: presentation in blocks, slabs, or bars; containing less than 21 percent by weight of milk solids; being wholly ground cocoa beans with optional additives; and adhering to the specified butterfat/milk solids and sugar limits. This classification is crucial for accurately determining import duties and trade statistics for these specific cocoa-based preparations.