Wood pulp; chemical wood pulp, soda or sulphate, (other than dissolving grades), unbleached, of coniferous wood

HS code 470311 covers the import and export of unbleached chemical wood pulp, produced using the soda or sulphate process, from coniferous wood sources. This type of wood pulp is a crucial raw material for the global paper and paperboard industry, enabling the production of a wide range of essential products, from printing and writing papers to packaging materials. As a key component in the supply chain, the trade of 470311 wood pulp plays a significant role in supporting economic activity across numerous sectors.

The production of 470311 wood pulp involves the chemical processing of coniferous wood, such as pine or spruce, using either the soda or sulphate (kraft) pulping method. In this process, the wood is chipped, cooked in a chemical solution, and then mechanically separated to extract the cellulose fibers. The resulting unbleached pulp is then further processed, dried, and prepared for sale and distribution to paper manufacturers and other downstream industries.

The main inputs required for the production of 470311 wood pulp include coniferous wood as the primary raw material, as well as various chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, sodium sulfide, and other processing agents. Specialized pulping equipment, including digesters, washers, and drying machines, are also essential for the manufacturing process. Additionally, a reliable supply of energy, water, and transportation infrastructure are important supporting inputs for this industry.

The primary output of HS code 470311 is unbleached chemical wood pulp, which is then consumed by the 470321 (Wood pulp; chemical wood pulp, soda or sulphate, (other than dissolving grades), semi-bleached or bleached, of coniferous wood) and 481013 (Kraft paper and paperboard (other than that of a kind used for writing, printing or other graphic purposes), uncoated, in rolls or sheets, weighing 150 g/m2 or less) industries, among others, to produce a variety of paper and paperboard products. The unbleached nature of this pulp also makes it suitable for use in the production of 481013 (Kraft paper and paperboard (other than that of a kind used for writing, printing or other graphic purposes), uncoated, in rolls or sheets, weighing 150 g/m2 or less) and other packaging materials.