4503 - Articles of natural cork:

This HTS category, 4503, encompasses a broad range of finished and semi-finished articles manufactured from natural cork. This includes items where cork is the principal material and its inherent properties, such as lightness, buoyancy, and compressibility, are utilized. Examples within this classification can range from decorative items to functional components, provided they are made from worked natural cork.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial. Unlike raw cork (Chapter 45) or less processed cork materials, 4503 specifically addresses articles that have undergone further manufacturing processes to create distinct products. For instance, while Chapter 45 might cover agglomerated cork or cork powder, this chapter focuses on the tangible articles fashioned from this material. Its siblings in other sections of the HTS cover entirely different product groups like live animals, minerals, or textiles, making the material composition the primary differentiator.

The subcategories within 4503 further refine the classification based on the specific type of cork article. 4503.10 specifically identifies corks and stoppers, which are commonly used in the beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The broader category, 4503.90, covers all other articles of natural cork not elsewhere specified, offering a catch-all for diverse items like cork boards, coasters, or insulating materials that are not stoppers but are undeniably articles of natural cork.