Paper and paperboard; kraft paper, creped or crinkled, whether or not embossed or perforated, in rolls or sheets, other than paper of heading 4803

HS code 480840 covers a versatile category of paper and paperboard products known as kraft paper. Kraft paper is a strong, durable material produced using the kraft process, a chemical pulping method that yields fibers with exceptional strength and durability. This type of paper finds widespread use across various industries, from packaging and construction to specialty applications, making it an integral component of the global import/export landscape.

The production of kraft paper under HS code 480840 typically involves the kraft process, where wood pulp is treated with a mixture of chemicals, including sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, to break down the lignin and separate the cellulose fibers. The resulting pulp is then bleached, if necessary, and processed through a paper machine to create the desired paper or paperboard product. Depending on the specific application, the paper may be further treated, such as by creping, embossing, or perforating, to impart unique characteristics.

The primary raw material for the production of kraft paper under HS code 480840 is wood pulp, typically sourced from softwood or hardwood trees. Other key inputs include chemicals used in the kraft process, such as sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, as well as specialized machinery like paper machines, calenders, and finishing equipment. Energy, water, and labor are also essential inputs for this industry.

The main outputs of the industry covered by HS code 480840 are various types of kraft paper and paperboard products, including creped or crinkled kraft paper, embossed or perforated kraft paper, and other kraft paper and paperboard products not classified under heading 4803 Paper and paperboard, coated, impregnated, covered, surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, in rolls or sheets, other than goods of heading 4803, 4809 or 4810. These kraft paper products are often used as raw materials or intermediate inputs for industries such as 4819 Cartons, boxes, cases, bags and other packing containers, of paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers, 4811 Paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibers, coated, impregnated, covered, surface-coloured, surface-decorated or printed, in rolls or sheets, and 4823 Other paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibers, cut to size or shape; other articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibers.