Paper pulp; filter blocks, slabs and plates of paper pulp

HS code 481200 covers the trade of paper pulp, which is a crucial raw material for the global paper and paperboard industry. This industry plays a vital role in the broader economy, providing essential materials for a wide range of applications, from packaging and printing to tissue products and specialty papers. The production and trade of paper pulp is a significant component of international trade, with countries around the world relying on imports and exports to meet their domestic needs.

The production of paper pulp typically involves mechanical, chemical, or a combination of both processes. Mechanical pulping uses physical means, such as grinding or refining, to separate the wood fibers, while chemical pulping utilizes various chemicals to dissolve the lignin that binds the fibers together. The resulting pulp is then further processed, often through bleaching or other treatments, to meet the specific requirements of the end-use applications.

The main inputs for the paper pulp industry include various types of wood, such as softwood and hardwood, as well as recycled paper and other cellulosic materials. Specialized machinery, such as pulp mills, refiners, and chemical processing equipment, are also essential for the production of paper pulp. Additionally, the industry relies on a range of chemicals, including caustic soda, sulfur compounds, and bleaching agents, to facilitate the pulping and processing of the raw materials.

The primary output of HS code 481200 is paper pulp, which is then used as a key input for the production of a wide range of paper and paperboard products. These include 480100 newsprint, 480200 uncoated paper and paperboard, 480300 toilet or facial tissue stock, towel or napkin stock, and 480400 kraft paper and paperboard, among others. The paper pulp industry is closely linked to the broader paper and packaging sectors, providing essential raw materials for their manufacturing processes.