Rubber; unvulcanised, (compounded other than with carbon black or silica), in primary forms, (other than plates, sheets, strip, solutions or dispersions)

HS code 400599 covers a wide range of unvulcanized rubber products in primary forms, excluding those compounded with carbon black or silica. This industry plays a crucial role in the broader rubber and plastics sector, providing essential raw materials for the manufacturing of various rubber-based goods, from tires and automotive parts to consumer products and industrial applications.

The production of unvulcanized rubber under HS code 400599 typically involves a series of processes, including mixing, compounding, and extrusion. Manufacturers combine raw rubber materials, such as natural or synthetic rubber, with various additives and chemicals to achieve the desired properties. The resulting compound is then extruded or molded into the desired primary forms, such as blocks, sheets, or strips, ready for further processing or incorporation into final products.

The main inputs required for the production of unvulcanized rubber under HS code 400599 include natural and synthetic rubber, as well as a range of chemical additives, such as plasticizers, antioxidants, and vulcanizing agents. Specialized machinery, such as mixers, extruders, and molding equipment, are also essential for the manufacturing process. Additionally, energy sources, such as electricity or steam, are necessary to power the production facilities.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 400599 are unvulcanized rubber products in various forms, including blocks, sheets, strips, and other primary shapes. These materials are then consumed by a wide range of downstream industries, such as the 401110 (Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on motor cars (including station wagons and racing cars)) and 401120 Rubber; new pneumatic tyres, of a kind used on buses or lorries industries for the production of tires, as well as the 401693 Rubber; vulcanized, other than hard rubber, other articles, gaskets, washers and the like industry for the manufacture of various rubber-based components and parts.