2401.30.33.20 - Burley

This HTS classification, 2401.30.33.20, specifically covers "Burley" unmanufactured tobacco. Burley tobacco is a type of air-cured tobacco known for its light color and mild flavor. It is characterized by a slower burn rate and a significant nicotine content, making it a popular choice for blending in cigarettes and pipe tobacco. The curing process, which typically takes place in well-ventilated barns, imparts distinct aromatic qualities to the leaf.

This category is distinguished from its sibling entries primarily by the specific type of tobacco leaf. For instance, "Flue-cured" tobacco (2401.30.33.10) undergoes a different curing process using artificial heat, resulting in a higher sugar content and a lighter, brighter color. Similarly, "Fire-cured" and "Dark air-cured" tobaccos (2401.30.33.35, 2401.30.33.40, 2401.30.33.50) are cured using smoke from burning hardwoods or are air-cured under different conditions, leading to darker leaves and more robust flavors.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories under this specific HTS code. Therefore, the classification is final for Burley tobacco that meets the criteria of being unmanufactured, tobacco refuse, other, other, described in additional U.S. note 5 to this chapter and entered pursuant to its provisions, tobacco stems, and not cut, not ground, and not pulverized. Importers should ensure that the tobacco leaf conforms to the inherent physical and chemical characteristics of Burley tobacco to maintain accurate classification.