3904.30.20.00 - Vinyl acetate-vinyl chloride-ethylene terpolymers, containing by weight less than 50 percent derivatives of vinyl acetate, except those polymerized from aromatic or modified aromatic monomers

This HTS classification, 3904.30.20.00, specifically covers terpolymers derived from vinyl acetate, vinyl chloride, and ethylene. The defining characteristic of these polymers is their composition, which must contain less than 50% by weight of vinyl acetate derivatives. Furthermore, it is crucial that these terpolymers are not polymerized from aromatic or modified aromatic monomers, ensuring their classification within this specific group. These materials are typically encountered in their primary forms, such as powders, granules, or liquids, serving as base materials for a wide range of plastic articles.

This classification is distinguished from its sibling category, 3904.30.60.00 ("Other"), by its precise compositional requirements. While the "Other" category likely encompasses other vinyl chloride-based polymers or copolymers not specifically defined elsewhere, 3904.30.20.00 is reserved for terpolymers meeting the stringent criteria regarding vinyl acetate content and the absence of aromatic monomers. This distinction ensures accurate tariff application and avoids misclassification of these specialized terpolymer materials.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. Therefore, classification under 3904.30.20.00 hinges entirely on meeting the outlined compositional requirements. Importers and exporters should carefully analyze the chemical makeup and polymerization process of their goods to confirm they align with the specific definition of vinyl acetate-vinyl chloride-ethylene terpolymers outlined here, especially concerning the percentage of vinyl acetate derivatives and the exclusion of aromatic monomers.