HS Code for Chemi-mechanical pulp

HS code 4705.00 is designated for wood pulp obtained by a combination of mechanical and chemical pulping processes. This classification is used when the wood fibers are separated using both heat/mechanical energy and chemical reagents, but the chemical treatment is not sufficient to classify it as purely chemical pulp. This process often results in higher yields than chemical pulping while maintaining better strength than purely mechanical pulp. The classification is strictly governed by the manufacturing method described in the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 47. To qualify for 4705.00, the pulp must have undergone a chemical treatment (such as with sodium sulfite or sodium hydroxide) followed by a mechanical refining stage. This distinguishes it from pulp where chemicals are only used as processing aids.

Products Included

• Chemi-thermomechanical pulp (CTMP)
• Bleached chemi-mechanical pulp (BCMP)
• Semi-chemical wood pulp
• Neutral sulfite semi-chemical pulp (NSSC)

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 4701.00 (Mechanical wood pulp) and HS codes 4703 or 4704 (Chemical wood pulp). If the chemical treatment is minimal and does not significantly alter the fiber structure, it remains under 4701.00. Conversely, if the lignin is almost entirely removed through chemical cooking, it must be classified as chemical pulp under 4703 (soda/sulfate) or 4704 (sulfite). Importers often fail to distinguish between CTMP and standard mechanical pulp.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Chemi-mechanical pulp?

The HS code for wood pulp obtained by a combination of mechanical and chemical processes is 4705.00.

How does it differ from chemical pulp?

Chemi-mechanical pulp retains more lignin and has a higher yield than chemical pulp (HS 4703/4704), which uses more intensive chemical cooking to dissolve lignin.