3913.90.10.00 - Chemical derivatives of natural rubber

This HTS category, 3913.90.10.00, specifically encompasses chemical derivatives of natural rubber that are not otherwise classified. These are modified forms of natural rubber, created through chemical processes, that alter its original properties. Examples include products like vulcanized rubber compounds or chemically treated latex, which are presented in their primary forms such as powders, granules, or blocks. The key characteristic is that these derivatives originate from natural rubber and have undergone chemical alteration.

This classification is distinct from its sibling category, 3913.90.20, which pertains to polysaccharides and their derivatives. While both fall under the broader heading of modified natural polymers, this distinction highlights the origin of the material. Polysaccharides are carbohydrate-based polymers, such as alginic acid or cellulose derivatives, whereas this category is strictly limited to materials derived from the natural rubber polymer. Another sibling, 3913.90.50.00, serves as a residual category for any other modified natural polymers not specifically detailed.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS classification, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the primary focus for classification into 3913.90.10.00 relies on identifying that the material is a chemical derivative of natural rubber and that it does not fit into any more specific existing HTS classifications. The "primary forms" aspect, as described in the parent category, is also crucial, meaning the goods should be in a raw or unmanufactured state before further processing into finished articles.