Hemp (cannabis sativa L.); raw or retted, but not spun

HS code 530210 covers the trade of raw or retted hemp, a versatile natural fiber derived from the cannabis sativa plant. Hemp has a long history of use in textiles, paper, and other industrial applications, and continues to be an important global commodity. As a renewable and environmentally-friendly resource, the hemp industry plays a significant role in the broader agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

The production of raw or retted hemp involves several key steps. First, the hemp plants are harvested and the fibers are separated from the woody stalks through a process called retting. Retting can be done through natural methods, such as exposing the plants to dew or submerging them in water, or through mechanical means. Once retted, the hemp fibers are dried and prepared for further processing, such as spinning, weaving, or use in other manufacturing processes.

The primary input for the hemp industry under HS code 530210 is, of course, the hemp plant itself. Farmers and growers must have access to high-quality hemp seeds or seedlings to cultivate the crop. Additionally, the retting process may require water resources, as well as specialized equipment for harvesting, separating, and drying the fibers. Depending on the intended use, the raw hemp may also need to be transported to facilities for further processing.

The raw or retted hemp produced under HS code 530210 is an important input for a variety of downstream industries. The fibers can be spun into yarn and woven into textiles, as covered under 530310 Jute and other textile bast fibers, raw or retted. Hemp is also used in the production of paper, as described in 470720 Pulp of fibrous cellulosic material; other, of bamboo, as well as in the manufacture of composite materials, construction materials, and other industrial applications.