2401.20.05.00 - Leaf tobacco, the product of two or more countries or dependencies, when mixed or packed together

This HTS category, 2401.20.05.00, specifically classifies unmanufactured leaf tobacco that has been partially or wholly stemmed or stripped, but not yet threshed or similarly processed. The defining characteristic of this classification is that the tobacco product originates from two or more countries or dependencies, and is either mixed or packed together. This indicates a blend of tobaccos with diverse origins before further processing into manufactured tobacco products.

The distinction between this category and its sibling, "Other," lies in the origin and packing of the leaf tobacco. While "Other" would encompass stemmed or stripped, unthreshed leaf tobacco from a single country or dependency, this category is reserved for composite mixtures or packings of such tobacco originating from multiple geopolitical entities. The "Not threshed or similarly processed" qualifier further refines the scope, excluding leaf tobacco that has undergone such mechanical treatments as breaking down the lamina and midrib.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 2401.20.05.00 hinges on confirming the unmanufactured status, the stemmed or stripped state, the absence of threshing, and crucially, the documented origin from multiple countries or dependencies where the tobaccos are mixed or packed together. Importers and exporters must ensure accurate documentation regarding the source of the tobacco blend to ensure correct customs declaration.