Chemi-Thermomechanical Pulp (CTMP) Softwood from Japan

CTMP involves mild chemical treatment of chips with sodium sulfite before thermomechanical pulping, yielding brighter pulp with good strength for tissue and linerboard. Though 'chemi-' suggests chemicals, minimal dissolution keeps high yield (>85%), classifying it as mechanical woodpulp under HTS 4701.00.00.00.

Duty Rate — Japan → United States

10%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter

Import Tips

Disclose chemical pretreatment levels (<10% yield loss) in technical data sheets to affirm mechanical dominance

Use ISO 302 viscosity tests to prove retained lignin, avoiding confusion with chemical grades

Label bales with 'CTMP - Mechanical Pulp' and wood origin to facilitate smooth customs clearance