Cork; natural cork, raw or simply prepared

HS code 450110 covers natural cork in its raw or simply prepared state. Cork is a versatile and sustainable material derived from the bark of the cork oak tree, primarily grown in the Mediterranean region. It plays a significant role in various industries, including construction, packaging, and consumer goods, making it an important commodity in the global trade landscape.

The production of natural cork involves the periodic harvesting of the cork oak tree's bark, a process that can be repeated every 9-12 years without harming the tree. The harvested cork is then sorted, graded, and processed to remove impurities, resulting in the raw or simply prepared cork that falls under HS code 450110.

The primary input for the production of natural cork under HS code 450110 is the cork oak tree itself. These trees are typically found in the Mediterranean region, with Spain, Portugal, and Algeria being the largest producers. In addition to the raw cork, the production process may require specialized equipment for harvesting, sorting, and processing the cork.

The natural cork produced under HS code 450110 is a versatile material that finds applications in a wide range of industries. It is commonly used in the manufacture of 450190 Cork and articles of cork, such as bottle stoppers, insulation materials, and various consumer products. The output from this industry may also be used as an input for the production of 450200 (Natural cork, debacked or roughly squared, or in rectangular (including square) blocks, plates, sheets or strip, (including sharp-edged blanks for corks or stoppers)), which is a more refined form of natural cork.