2401.20.60.20 - Connecticut shade

This HTS classification, 2401.20.60.20, specifically covers "Connecticut shade" tobacco. This refers to unmanufactured tobacco leaves that have undergone a process of being threshed or similarly processed, and have also been stemmed or stripped. The term "Connecticut shade" denotes a specific type of tobacco leaf cultivated and cured under shade-grown conditions, typically characterized by its thin stem, fine texture, and suitability for use as cigar wrappers.

This category is distinguished from its sibling category, 2401.20.60.40 ("Other"), by the specific varietal identity of the tobacco. While the sibling category encompasses other types of threshed, stemmed, or stripped tobacco from cigar leaf that do not meet the "Connecticut shade" designation, this classification is precisely for that particular shade-grown leaf, used primarily in the premium cigar industry. The classification hinges on the specific variety and cultivation method of the tobacco.

As a leaf node, 2401.20.60.20 does not have further subcategories. Its classification is based on the definitive characteristics of being threshed or similarly processed, stemmed or stripped, and belonging to the "Connecticut shade" variety of cigar leaf tobacco. Importers and exporters should ensure that the tobacco meets these precise criteria to avoid misclassification.