Tanning extracts of vegetable origin; wattle extract

HS code 320120 covers tanning extracts of vegetable origin, including the widely used wattle extract. These natural tanning agents play a crucial role in the leather industry, providing the essential compounds needed to transform raw hides into durable, high-quality leather products. As a key input for the leather value chain, the tanning extract industry is closely tied to the broader manufacturing and consumer goods sectors, contributing to the production of a wide range of leather-based items such as footwear, apparel, and accessories.

The production of tanning extracts, such as wattle extract, typically involves the extraction of tannins and other active compounds from the bark or leaves of various plant species. This is often done through a process of water or solvent extraction, followed by concentration and purification steps to obtain the desired tanning agents. The specific techniques may vary depending on the source material and the desired properties of the final extract.

The primary inputs for the tanning extract industry include the raw plant materials, such as wattle bark or other tannin-rich plant sources. Additionally, the production process may require various solvents, equipment for extraction and purification, and energy sources to power the manufacturing facilities. The availability and quality of these inputs can significantly impact the overall output and competitiveness of the tanning extract industry.

The main output of HS code 320120 is the tanning extracts themselves, which are then used as key inputs in the production of 4104 Tanned or crust hides and skins and 4107 Leather further prepared after tanning or crusting. These tanning extracts are essential for the leather industry, as they provide the necessary compounds to transform raw hides into durable, high-quality leather products. The tanning extract industry's outputs are closely linked to the broader leather manufacturing and consumer goods sectors.