4504 - Agglomerated cork (with or without a binding substance) and articles of agglomerated cork:

Chapter 45 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) encompasses articles made from cork. Heading 4504 specifically addresses agglomerated cork, which is cork that has been processed and reformed, typically with the addition of binding agents, into new shapes. This category includes raw or semi-finished agglomerated cork materials such as blocks, plates, sheets, strip, and solid cylinders, as well as finished articles manufactured from these materials, like tiles of any shape.

Unlike sibling categories within Section IX that deal with wood and articles of wood (Chapter 44), wood charcoal (Chapter 41), or other materials like straw or esparto, heading 4504 is exclusively dedicated to cork in its agglomerated form and its manufactured articles. It distinguishes itself from naturally occurring cork products by the process of agglomeration, which allows for greater versatility in form and application.

Within heading 4504, further subdivisions exist to refine classification. Subheading 4504.10 details specific geometric forms like blocks, plates, sheets, and strip, alongside solid cylinders and disks, and also includes tiles of any shape. This differentiation is crucial for identifying the specific presentation and intended use of the agglomerated cork material. The remaining classifications under subheading 4504.90.00.00 cover other miscellaneous articles made from agglomerated cork that do not fit the more specific forms outlined in 4504.10.