HS 470421 Semi-bleached or bleached
Quick Answer: Wood pulp, specifically semi-bleached or bleached chemical wood pulp, enters the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US duty-free under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification covers pulp that has undergone a bleaching process to increase its whiteness and purity, making it suitable for fine paper and other specialized products. Importers and customs brokers should note that while duty rates are currently zero across these major markets, compliance with specific import regulations and documentation requirements remains essential. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, highlighting the favorable trade conditions for this product.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4704210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4704210000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4704210000 | Free | — | ["t adw"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 470421 cover?
This subheading covers wood pulp that has been semi-bleached or bleached, specifically chemical wood pulp. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes pulp derived from coniferous or non-coniferous wood that has undergone a bleaching process to achieve a higher degree of whiteness. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system further define this as pulp intended for papermaking, excluding mechanical pulp or pulp that is not significantly purified. For example, dissolving pulp, which is highly purified, is typically classified elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 470421?
The following products are excluded from HS 470421: wood pulp that has not been semi-bleached or bleached, such as unbleached chemical pulp or mechanical pulp. Also excluded are pulp made from materials other than wood, like bamboo or straw, and waste paper or paperboard pulp. For instance, mechanical wood pulp, which retains more lignin and is less white, is classified under HS 4701. Similarly, pulp intended for non-paper uses, such as dissolving pulp for rayon production, is generally classified under HS 4702.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 470421?
A common error is misclassifying unbleached wood pulp as semi-bleached or bleached. This often occurs when the degree of bleaching is not clearly understood or documented. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify pulp intended for dissolving purposes (e.g., for textiles) under this heading, when such highly purified pulp is typically classified under HS 4702.
How should importers classify products under HS 470421?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 470421 involves a thorough examination of the product's processing and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the wood pulp has undergone a semi-bleaching or full bleaching process. Reviewing the manufacturer's specifications, technical data sheets, and any relevant certifications is crucial. If the pulp is intended for papermaking and has a significantly increased brightness compared to its unbleached state, it likely falls under this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 470421?
A shipment of bleached softwood kraft pulp weighing 10,000 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD would attract a US duty of $400.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $8,000 USD = $400.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 4704.21.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 470421?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 470421, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for originating pulp from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially free, for originating goods from countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the exporting country and the specific agreement.
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FAQ
What are the import duties for HS code 4704.21.0000, specifically for 'Semi-bleached or bleached' wood pulp?
For imports into the United States, HS code 4704.21.0000, which covers 'Semi-bleached or bleached chemical wood pulp, other than dissolving grades,' generally has a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free. This classification is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Always verify the current tariff schedule for any updates or specific country-of-origin nuances. Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements may also apply, but the base MFN rate is typically 0%.
How is the duty for HS code 4704.21 calculated if there were a duty? For example, if the duty rate was 3.5% ad valorem and the imported pulp was valued at $10,000, how would the duty be determined?
While HS code 4704.21 typically carries a Free MFN duty rate in major markets like the US, if a duty were applicable, it would usually be calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods). For instance, if the duty rate were 3.5% ad valorem and the imported pulp had an entered value of $10,000, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 (Duty Amount). It's crucial to confirm the specific duty rate and its basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs authority for the importing country.
What are the key classification criteria for wood pulp to fall under HS code 4704.21 ('Semi-bleached or bleached')?
To be classified under HS code 4704.21, the chemical wood pulp must be either semi-bleached or fully bleached. This means it has undergone a chemical process to remove lignin and other impurities, resulting in a lighter color and increased purity compared to unbleached pulp. The pulp should not be of the 'dissolving grades,' which are specifically intended for the manufacture of artificial fibers or other chemical derivatives and are classified under HS 4702. The process of bleaching is key; if the pulp remains in its natural, darker color after chemical pulping, it would not meet the criteria for this code.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 4704.21?
When importing goods under HS code 4704.21, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the pulp; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transport. A certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a phytosanitary certificate might also be required to ensure the wood pulp is free from pests and diseases. Always consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list of required documents.
Are there specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 4704.21?
While HS code 4704.21 often benefits from a Free MFN duty rate in many major economies, FTAs can still be relevant for ensuring duty-free entry or for specific origin requirements. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) or agreements between the European Union member states and third countries might offer preferential treatment. Importers should consult the specific FTA texts and the customs regulations of the importing country to determine if their product, based on its origin, qualifies for duty-free or reduced-duty treatment under an applicable trade agreement. This often involves meeting Rules of Origin criteria.