4001.30.00.55 - Other

This HTS category, "Other," at 4001.30.00.55, is a residual classification for natural gums that do not fit into the more specific subcategories of balata, gutta-percha, or chicle. It encompasses a range of natural resins derived from various trees and plants, which share similar physical and chemical properties with the more commonly identified gums. These can include, but are not limited to, natural gums like jelutong or pallagum, provided they are in their primary forms, such as lumps, blocks, or granules, or as plates, sheets, or strip.

The distinction of this "Other" category lies in its exclusion of the specifically named sibling categories: balata (4001.30.00.05), gutta-percha and guttas not elsewhere specified or included (4001.30.00.10), and chicle (4001.30.00.20). While all these materials are natural gums and fall under the broader heading of natural rubber, balata, gutta-percha, guayule, chicle and similar natural gums, this particular classification is reserved for those that do not meet the defining characteristics or origins of the others. The key is that if a natural gum exhibits properties similar to balata, gutta-percha, or chicle but cannot be definitively identified as such, or if it is a lesser-known natural gum with comparable characteristics, it will likely be classified here.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Classification under 4001.30.00.55 is therefore final. When classifying goods under this code, customs professionals should first exhaust the possibilities of classification under the more specific sibling categories. If the material is confirmed to be a natural gum with properties akin to those described in the parent heading, but it does not align with the specific definitions of balata, gutta-percha, or chicle, then this "Other" category serves as the appropriate classification.