Cork and articles of cork

HS code 45 covers a diverse range of products made from cork, a natural and renewable material harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree. Cork has a wide range of applications, from construction materials to consumer goods, making it an important commodity in the global trade landscape. This industry plays a significant role in the economies of countries where cork oak forests are prevalent, such as Portugal, Spain, and North Africa.

The production of cork-based products typically involves a series of steps, starting with the harvesting of cork bark from the cork oak trees. The bark is then boiled, dried, and processed into various shapes and forms, such as sheets, tiles, or granules. Depending on the final product, the processed cork may undergo additional treatments, such as cutting, molding, or lamination, to create the desired characteristics and properties.

The primary input for the cork industry is the raw cork bark harvested from cork oak trees. Additionally, the industry requires specialized machinery and equipment for the various processing and manufacturing stages, as well as adhesives, coatings, and other materials used in the production of finished cork products. Energy sources, such as electricity or natural gas, are also essential for the various processing and manufacturing steps.

The cork industry produces a wide range of products, including 4504 Agglomerated cork, 4503 Natural cork, and 4502 Cork stoppers. These cork-based products are used in a variety of applications, such as construction, insulation, packaging, and consumer goods. The outputs of the cork industry are often consumed by industries classified under other HS codes, such as 2204 Wine, 3923 Plastic packaging goods, and 4415 Wooden containers.