Natural cork, raw or simply prepared; waste cork; crushed, granulated or ground cork

HS code 4501 covers the trade and production of natural cork, a versatile and sustainable material derived from the bark of the cork oak tree. This industry plays a vital role in the global economy, providing a renewable resource for a wide range of applications, from construction and insulation to the production of wine stoppers and other consumer goods. As a natural and biodegradable material, cork production aligns with the growing demand for environmentally friendly products, making it an increasingly important sector within the broader import/export landscape.

The production of natural cork involves the harvesting of the cork bark from cork oak trees, a process that can be repeated every 9-12 years without harming the tree. The harvested bark is then boiled, dried, and sorted based on quality and intended use. Depending on the final product, the cork may be further processed through techniques such as granulation, agglomeration, or compression to create specialized cork-based materials and goods.

The primary input for the cork industry is the cork oak tree (0602 Live trees and other plants; bulbs, roots and the like; cut flowers and ornamental foliage), which is predominantly cultivated in the Mediterranean region, particularly in Portugal, Spain, and North Africa. In addition to the raw cork material, the industry also requires specialized equipment for harvesting, processing, and manufacturing cork-based products. Energy sources, such as electricity and fuel, are also essential inputs for the various production stages.

The cork industry produces a diverse range of outputs, including raw cork, cork waste, and various processed cork products. These outputs are then consumed by a wide range of industries, such as 4503 Articles of natural cork, 4504 (Agglomerated cork (with or without a binding substance) and articles of agglomerated cork), and 2204 Wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines; grape must other than that of heading 2009, which utilize cork for applications like wine stoppers, insulation, and construction materials.