2401.10.29.20 - Connecticut shade

This HTS category, 2401.10.29.20, specifically classifies "Connecticut shade" unmanufactured tobacco that has not been stemmed or stripped. This designation is for tobacco leaves that are used as wrapper material and are characterized by their thinness, elasticity, and controlled cultivation under shade to achieve specific visual and textural qualities. The "Connecticut shade" classification is critical for distinguishing wrapper tobacco varieties based on their origin and cultivation methods, which directly impact their suitability for premium cigar production.

This category is distinct from its sibling, 2401.10.29.40, which is also designated as "Other" within the "Containing over 35 percent wrapper tobacco" sub-branch. The key difference lies in the specificity of the tobacco type. While the sibling category encompasses other types of unmanufactured tobacco that meet the wrapper criteria but are not specifically identified as "Connecticut shade," this node is reserved for that distinctively grown and processed variety. The presence of "Connecticut shade" in the description signals a unique category based on recognized industry standards for cigar wrapper leaf.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories within 2401.10.29.20. Therefore, the classification is finalized at this level based on the characteristics of the unmanufactured tobacco being of the Connecticut shade variety, unstemmed and unstripped, and contributing to over 35 percent of the total tobacco content in a given shipment. Classification here hinges on the accurate identification and declaration of "Connecticut shade" tobacco, ensuring compliance with trade regulations for this specialized tobacco product.