2202.99.30.00 - Not made from a juice having a degree of concentration of 1.5 or more (as determined before correction to the nearest 0.5 degree)

This HTS category, 2202.99.30.00, specifically covers non-alcoholic beverages that are not classified under more specific headings, particularly those derived from fruit or vegetable juices. The defining characteristic here is that these beverages are *not* made from a juice having a degree of concentration of 1.5 or more (as determined before correction to the nearest 0.5 degree). This implies that the base juice used, if any, has a relatively low concentration of dissolved solids. Examples might include lightly flavored waters or beverages where the fruit or vegetable component is not a concentrated extract.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its sibling, 2202.99.35.00, which is designated for "Other" beverages that do not fit into the more specific subcategories. Since 2202.99.30.00 has a distinct criterion related to juice concentration, any non-alcoholic beverage that meets this specific concentration threshold would be classified here, rather than under the more general "Other" sibling category. The absence of subcategories at this level indicates that this is a terminal classification for these particular types of beverages, and the classification hinges entirely on the juice concentration rule.

Given that this is a leaf node, the primary classification criterion revolves around the stated degree of juice concentration. Importers and exporters must be able to demonstrate, through documentation or analysis if necessary, that the juice component of their beverage does not exceed the specified concentration limit. This distinction is vital to ensure accurate duty assessment and compliance with import regulations.