9602.00.50.10 - Unfilled vegetable capsules

HTS code 9602.00.50.10 specifically classifies unfilled capsules made from vegetable materials. These are distinct from those made from mineral carving materials, wax, stearin, natural gums, natural resins, or modeling pastes, which fall under other provisions within heading 9602. The "vegetable" aspect is key here, referring to materials derived from plants, such as cellulose or starches, that have been processed into capsule forms without any filling.

This category is a leaf node, meaning it does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification into 9602.00.50.10 relies on the precise characteristics of the capsule itself: its vegetable origin and its unfilled state. Its direct sibling, 9602.00.50.80, covers "Other" articles within the broader heading, implying it would capture items that do not fit the specific definition of unfilled vegetable capsules but are still related to worked vegetable or mineral carving materials, wax, gelatin, or similar molded/carved articles not elsewhere specified.

When classifying, it is crucial to confirm the material composition of the capsule. If the capsule is made from a mineral source, or if it contains any filling, it would be excluded from this specific sub-heading and would need to be classified elsewhere based on its constituent materials or function. The purpose of these unfilled vegetable capsules is generally for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical applications, serving as a container for powdered or granular substances.