HS Code 4703
Soda or Sulphate Chemical Wood Pulp
HS code 4703 covers chemical wood pulp produced via soda or sulphate processes, excluding dissolving grades, used for high-strength paper and packaging.
HS Code 4703 — Soda or Sulphate Chemical Wood Pulp
This is the most common type of wood pulp, produced using the kraft process (sulphate) or soda process. These processes produce strong, durable fibres used for printing paper, high-quality tissues, and packaging materials.
What's included
- Kraft pulp
- Bleached softwood kraft pulp (BSKP)
- Unbleached hardwood kraft pulp
- Soda process pulp
What's excluded
- Sulphite chemical pulp → use
4704(Sulphite processes use different chemical agents and are classified under 4704.)
Common examples
- Bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp (BEKP)
- Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft (NBSK)
- Unbleached kraft pulp for brown paper bags
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of 'bleached' versus 'unbleached'?
Bleached pulp is white and used for writing and printing paper, while unbleached (brown) pulp is used where strength is more important than appearance, such as in shipping boxes.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0%
- Documentation: Specify whether coniferous (softwood) or non-coniferous (hardwood) as this affects the 6-digit classification.
- Typical shipping mode: FCL
- Top exporters: Brazil, Canada, Chile
- Top importers: China, United States, Italy
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
The industrial standard 'Kraft' pulp used for the majority of the world's strong paper and cardboard.
Related HS codes
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