3809.93 - Of a kind used in the leather or like industries:

This HTS category, 3809.93, encompasses finishing agents, dye carriers, dressings, and mordants specifically formulated for use in the leather and similar industries. These chemical preparations are designed to enhance the properties of leather during manufacturing processes, such as improving dye penetration, aiding in fixation, or imparting desired finishes. The key defining characteristic of this category is its application within the leather sector.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. While 3809.91 covers similar products for the textile industry and 3809.92 is for the paper industry, 3809.93 exclusively applies to preparations utilized in the processing and finishing of leather and analogous materials like suede or patent leather. The functional purpose and intended end-use in leather treatment are the primary differentiators.

Within 3809.93, further subdivisions are based on the chemical composition of the preparations. The subcategory 3809.93.10 distinguishes preparations containing 5 percent or more by weight of aromatic or modified aromatic substances. This distinction is important as these specific chemical components may influence the product's performance or regulatory treatment. The remaining products, not meeting this specific aromatic content threshold, fall under the residual subcategory 3809.93.50.