Animal products; coral and similar materials, shells of molluscs, crustaceans, echinoderms, cuttle-bone, unworked or simply prepared but not cut to shape, powder and waste thereof

HS code 050800 covers a diverse range of animal-derived products, including coral, shells, and other materials from marine organisms. These materials have a wide variety of applications, from decorative and craft uses to industrial applications. The global trade in these products is significant, with many countries both importing and exporting these goods as part of their import/export activities.

The production techniques for the goods covered under HS code 050800 vary depending on the specific material. Coral and shells are typically harvested from the ocean, either through diving or dredging operations. The materials may then be cleaned, sorted, and in some cases, minimally processed (e.g., cutting, grinding) before being exported. Powder and waste products are often generated as byproducts of these harvesting and processing activities.

The primary inputs for this industry are the raw materials themselves - the coral, shells, and other marine organisms. Harvesting these materials requires specialized equipment, such as diving gear, dredging machinery, and processing facilities. Labor is also a significant input, as the harvesting and processing of these materials is often labor-intensive. Additionally, transportation and logistics play a crucial role in moving these products from the point of harvest to the point of export or further processing.

The outputs of this industry include a wide range of products, such as decorative coral, shell jewelry and crafts, and industrial powders and waste materials. These outputs may be consumed by a variety of other industries, including 950700 (Worked ivory, bone, horn, antler, coral, mother-of-pearl and other animal carving material, and articles of these materials (including articles obtained by moulding)) and 950890 (Worked vegetable or mineral carving material and articles of these materials; moulded or carved articles of wax, of stearin, of natural gums or natural resins or of modelling pastes, and other moulded or carved articles, not elsewhere specified or included; worked, unhardened gelatin (except gelatin of heading 3503) and articles of unhardened gelatin). The waste and powder materials may also be used in 310100 Animal or vegetable fertilisers, whether or not mixed together or chemically treated; fertilisers produced by the mixing or chemical treatment of animal or vegetable products and other industrial applications.