3503.00.20.00 - Valued under 88 cents per kg

This HTS category, 3503.00.20.00, specifically covers inedible gelatin and animal glues that are valued at under 88 cents per kilogram. This includes gelatin in various forms, such as sheets (even if cut into rectangular or square shapes, or treated on the surface or colored), as well as derivatives of gelatin. It also encompasses isinglass and other glues derived from animal sources, excluding casein glues which fall under heading 3501. The critical distinguishing factor for this classification is the declared value of the product at the time of import or export.

The primary distinction between this category and its sibling, 3503.00.40.00, lies in the value threshold. While both cover inedible gelatin and animal glues, this specific subheading applies to goods with a per-kilogram valuation strictly below 88 cents. Conversely, 3503.00.40.00 is for identical products but valued at 88 cents or more per kilogram. This value-based differentiation is a key practical criterion for correct classification and subsequent duty assessment.

As this classification node represents a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories for this specific designation. Therefore, the focus remains on precisely identifying inedible gelatin and animal glues that meet the specified value criterion. Practical examples of products falling under this category could include bulk shipments of animal-derived adhesives or gelatin intended for industrial applications where its value per unit weight falls below the 88-cent threshold.