CLA-2-95:RR:NC:2:224 B88714

Alan Drake
Fritz Companies, Inc.
1721 W. Elfindale, Suite 205
Springfield, MO 65807

RE: The tariff classification of a baseball from China.

Dear Mr. Drake:

In your letter dated August 15, 1997, you requested a tariff classification ruling, on behalf of Rawlings Sporting Goods Co.

The merchandise consists of a regulation size and weight baseball that, in addition, contains an internal impact sensor and measuring device which computes the speed of the thrown ball and displays the number in a small opto-electronic window. It is said that the article will be used in training exercises for players in Little League all the way up to Major League Baseball. The sample baseball will be returned at your request. The applicable subheading for the baseball/measuring device will be 9506.69.2040, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for "Articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports or outdoor games...: Balls, other than golf balls and table-tennis balls: Other: Baseballs and softballs. The rate of duty will be 1.2 percent ad valorem. This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of the ruling or the control number indicated above should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist Tom McKenna at 212-466-5475.

Sincerely,

Gwenn Klein Kirschner
Chief, Special Products Br.
National Commodity
Specialist Division