2403.19.60.50 - Flue-cured

This HTS classification, 2403.19.60.50, specifically covers "Flue-cured" smoking tobacco. Flue-cured tobacco is a type of leaf that has been dried using controlled heat in specially designed barns, resulting in a higher sugar content and a characteristic bright yellow to orange color. This process significantly influences its aroma and flavor profile, making it suitable for specific smoking blends.

This category is distinguished from its siblings by the specific curing method. "Burley" tobacco (2403.19.60.60) is air-cured, typically resulting in a darker leaf and a less sweet, more earthy flavor. "Maryland" tobacco (2403.19.60.80) is also air-cured and is known for its mildness and ability to burn slowly. The "Other" category (2403.19.60.90) at this level encompasses smoking tobacco not classified under flue-cured, Burley, or Maryland.

As a leaf node, 2403.19.60.50 does not have further subcategories. Classification within this code is dependent on the tobacco leaf being presented as smoking tobacco, regardless of whether it contains any proportion of tobacco substitutes, and meeting the criteria of the "flue-cured" description. Importers must ensure that the tobacco's physical characteristics and curing process align with the definition of flue-cured to correctly utilize this classification.