2702.20.00.00 - Agglomerated lignite

This HTS category, 2702.20.00.00, specifically covers lignite that has been agglomerated. Agglomeration refers to the process where smaller particles of lignite are bound together to form larger, more cohesive units. This can be achieved through various methods, such as briquetting or pelletizing, often with the addition of binders or by applying heat and pressure. The resulting product is a solid fuel that is typically more convenient to handle, store, and burn than raw, pulverized lignite.

This classification is distinguished from its sibling category, 2702.10.00.00, which covers lignite that is pulverized but not agglomerated. The key differentiating factor is the physical state and form of the lignite. While 2702.10.00.00 includes lignite in a fine powder form, 2702.20.00.00 specifically addresses the processed form where these fine particles have been consolidated into larger masses. Both categories fall under the broader heading of lignite, whether or not pulverized, excluding jet, but the agglomeration process creates a distinct product for tariff purposes.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories branching from 2702.20.00.00. Therefore, the classification is definitive for agglomerated lignite. When classifying goods, it is crucial to ascertain whether the lignite has undergone an agglomeration process. Visual inspection of the physical form, understanding the manufacturing process (if information is available), and confirming the absence of further subdivision based on the material's specific characteristics are key to accurate classification under this code.