2401.10.65.80 - Maryland

This classification, HTS 2401.10.65.80, specifically covers "Maryland" unmanufactured tobacco. This refers to tobacco leaf that has been harvested and undergone initial processing, such as drying, but has not yet been stemmed or stripped. Critically, it does not contain wrapper tobacco, or if it does, the wrapper tobacco comprises no more than 35 percent of the total weight. This subcategory falls under the broader grouping of light air-cured leaf tobacco, which is characterized by its curing process and typically results in a lighter color and milder flavor profile.

The distinction between this category and its siblings lies in the specific variety and curing method of the tobacco leaf. While HTS 2401.10.65.30 covers "Flue-cured" tobacco and HTS 2401.10.65.60 covers "Burley" tobacco, this classification, 2401.10.65.80, is reserved for "Maryland" tobacco, a distinct variety of light air-cured tobacco. The "Other" designation within the parent category signifies that it captures types of light air-cured leaf tobacco that are not specifically classified as flue-cured or burley, with Maryland being a prime example of such a distinct variety.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the classification is considered definitive for Maryland tobacco meeting the outlined criteria. Classification under this code hinges on the accurate identification of the tobacco variety as Maryland leaf, its unmanufactured state (not stemmed or stripped), and the absence or minimal presence of wrapper tobacco as defined in the preceding levels of the tariff schedule. This specificity ensures that trade data accurately reflects the type of unmanufactured tobacco being imported or exported.