7408 - Copper wire:

This HTS category, 7408, specifically addresses copper wire. This encompasses wire manufactured from copper in its pure form or as an alloy. The classification is determined by the material composition and the form of the product, which is drawn or extruded into a continuous strand. These wires are typically used in electrical applications, such as conductors in cables, windings in motors and transformers, and for general wiring purposes.

Distinguishing 7408 from its sibling categories within the broader HTS framework highlights its specific focus. Unlike categories within Chapter 01, which deal with live animals, or other sections covering diverse goods like plastics, textiles, or machinery, 7408 is strictly limited to articles made of copper in wire form. The key differentiator is the base metal and its transformation into a filamentary product.

Within 7408, further subdivision is provided by its subcategories. The distinction between "Of refined copper" and "Of copper alloys" is crucial for accurate classification. Refined copper wire is made from copper with a high degree of purity, often exceeding 99%. Copper alloy wire, conversely, is manufactured from mixtures of copper with other metals, such as zinc (brass), tin (bronze), or nickel, which impart specific properties like increased strength, hardness, or corrosion resistance. These subcategories allow for granular tariff application based on the precise composition of the copper wire.