Analysis
HTS 4503.10.40 covers other: other under heading 4503 (articles of natural cork).
The normal trade relations rate here is zero, shared by about 95% of the 19 tariff lines in chapter 45, a useful check when a neighbouring dutiable line is a candidate. Duty-free at the general rate does not rule out additional duties under Chapter 99, such as Section 301 or Section 232 measures, which depend on the country of origin.
The other lines in the same group are 4503.10.20 (with maximum diameter not over 19 mm, duty-free), 4503.10.30 (wholly of cork, of a thickness (or length) greater than the…, duty-free) and 4503.10.60 (corks and stoppers: other, duty-free).
Census statistics map these goods to NAICS 321999 (All Other Miscellaneous Wood Product Manufacturing), an industry of 2,327 US establishments employing 31,381 people. That concordance is how imports of this line are compared with US output.
All 3 neighbouring lines carry the same duty-free rate, so a borderline choice between them changes the statistics reported, not the duty paid.
The general rate of Free has not changed in any edition of the schedule since Jan 2023.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 4503.10.20 | With maximum diameter not over 19 mm | Free |
| 4503.10.30 | Wholly of cork, of a thickness (or length) greater than the maximum diameter | Free |
| 4503.10.60 | Corks and stoppers: other | Free |