4403.41.00.00 - Dark Red Meranti, Light Red Meranti and Meranti Bakau

This HTS category, 4403.41.00.00, specifically covers wood in its rough state that originates from tropical forests and is identified as Dark Red Meranti, Light Red Meranti, and Meranti Bakau. This includes timber that has been stripped of its bark or sapwood, or simply squared off. The key defining characteristic for this classification is the specific botanical and commercial designation of the wood species, focusing on the Meranti group.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, 4403.42.00.00 (Teak) and 4403.49.02.00 (Other tropical woods), is crucial. While all fall under the broader umbrella of rough tropical wood, 4403.41.00.00 is exclusive to the Meranti species. Teak, classified separately, is renowned for its distinct durability and grain. The "Other" category, 4403.49.02.00, serves as a residual classification for any rough tropical wood not specifically identified elsewhere within the 4403.40 subheadings.

As this HTS classification represents a leaf node, there are no further subcategories under 4403.41.00.00. Therefore, classification within this code relies entirely on the accurate identification of the wood as Dark Red Meranti, Light Red Meranti, or Meranti Bakau. Importers and exporters must ensure that their documentation clearly supports this identification, as customs authorities will scrutinize the origin and species of the timber to ensure correct duty assessment.