5001.00.00.00 - Silkworm cocoons suitable for reeling

This HTS category, 5001.00.00.00, specifically encompasses silkworm cocoons that are intended for the process of silk reeling. This means the cocoons must be in a state that allows for the unwinding of the silk filament, typically collected after the silkworms have completed their pupal stage and before they emerge as moths. The primary characteristic is their suitability for industrial silk production, distinguishing them from unprocessable or damaged cocoons.

While this HTS chapter, Chapter 50, broadly deals with silk and silk products, 5001.00.00.00 sits at the very beginning of the silk value chain. It is distinct from later categories within Chapter 50 which might cover raw silk, spun silk, yarn, fabrics, or articles made from silk. Unlike other Chapters that might contain live animals (e.g., Chapter 1), this classification is focused on the raw material derived from an insect, specifically the cocoon stage, rather than the live organism itself.

As a leaf node, this classification does not have further subcategories. Therefore, the focus is on the precise definition and application of the term "suitable for reeling." This implies that cocoons that have been perforated by emerging moths, excessively matted, or otherwise compromised to the extent that the silk filament cannot be continuously unwound, would generally not fall under this specific HTS code. The condition and inherent nature of the cocoon are paramount for its classification here.