4704.29.00.00 - Nonconiferous

This HTS category, 4704.29.00.00, specifically covers nonconiferous chemical wood pulp that has undergone sulfite pulping and is not of the dissolving grades. This means it includes pulp derived from deciduous trees, such as poplar, birch, or eucalyptus, which has been processed using the sulfite method. The pulp in this category has been further treated to be semibleached or fully bleached, indicating a reduction in lignin content and an increase in brightness compared to unbleached pulp.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its sibling, 4704.21.00.00, which covers coniferous wood pulp. The primary difference lies in the botanical origin of the wood used. Coniferous pulp is derived from softwoods like pine or spruce, whereas the pulp classified under 4704.29.00.00 originates from hardwoods. Both are chemical wood pulps produced via the sulfite process and are semibleached or bleached, but their differing wood sources result in distinct fiber characteristics and applications.

As this is a leaf node in the HTS structure, there are no further subdivisions within this specific code. Classification at this level is determined by the combination of the pulping process (sulfite), the intended grade (not dissolving), the bleaching status (semibleached or bleached), and the type of wood (nonconiferous). Importers and exporters should ensure their goods precisely meet all these criteria to ensure accurate classification.