4703 - Chemical woodpulp, soda or sulfate, other than dissolving grades:

This HTS category, 4703, encompasses chemical wood pulp produced using the soda or sulfate pulping processes, excluding dissolving grades. These are pulp materials derived from wood that have undergone chemical treatment to separate cellulose fibers. This classification is distinct from other pulp types found in Chapter 47, such as mechanical pulp (e.g., groundwood pulp) or pulp made from other fibrous cellulosic materials like rags. The key differentiator here is the chemical pulping method and the exclusion of dissolving grades, which are intended for further chemical processing into regenerated cellulose products like rayon or cellophane.

Within this category, the distinction between unbleached and semibleached or bleached pulp is significant. Unbleached pulp retains more of its natural lignin content and appears brown, while semibleached and bleached pulps have undergone further chemical treatments to remove lignin and achieve a whiter appearance. This color and purity level is often a primary factor in determining its suitability for various paper-making applications, influencing its end-use and market value.