Cork; waste cork, crushed, granulated or ground cork

HS code 450190 covers a range of cork-based products, including waste cork, crushed cork, granulated cork, and ground cork. Cork is a natural, renewable, and sustainable material derived from the bark of the cork oak tree. The cork industry plays a significant role in the global economy, particularly in countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy, which are major producers and exporters of cork products. These materials find a wide range of applications, from construction and insulation to the production of wine stoppers and various consumer goods.

The production of the materials covered under HS code 450190 typically involves a series of processing steps. First, the cork bark is harvested from the cork oak trees, a process that is carefully managed to ensure the sustainability of the resource. The harvested cork is then cleaned, sorted, and graded based on quality and intended use. Depending on the final product, the cork may be crushed, granulated, or ground using specialized machinery to achieve the desired particle size and consistency.

The primary input for the production of the materials under HS code 450190 is the raw cork harvested from cork oak trees. In addition to the cork itself, the industry may require various processing equipment, such as grinding machines, sorting systems, and packaging materials. Energy sources, such as electricity or fuel, are also necessary for the various production and processing steps.

The materials covered under HS code 450190 are used in a wide range of applications. Crushed, granulated, and ground cork are commonly used in construction and insulation, as well as in the production of 450310 Cork articles, 450390 Other cork articles, and 450410 Agglomerated cork and articles thereof. The waste cork generated during the production process may also be further processed and utilized in various industries.