CLA-2-62:S:N:N:HO6 REH

Beijing Trade Exchange, Inc.
701 E. Street, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20003

Attention: Melodie Wong

RE: The tariff classification of textile sleeve protector from China.

Dear Ms. Wong:

In your letter dated August 26, 1997 you requested a tariff classification ruling.

A representative sleeve protector, not further identified by a style or item number, was submitted for our examination. It is made from spunbonded polypropylene material, coated on the inside surface, and is intended for use by "workers in laboratories and food processing plants." The loose-fitting tubular sleeve measures approximately 18 inches in length and features gathered elastic around both ends.

The applicable subheading for the sleeve protector, will be 6217.10.9530 Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Other made up clothing accessories; parts of garments or of clothing accessories, other then those of heading 6212: Accessories: Other... Other: Of man-made fibers... The rate of duty will be 15.2 percent ad valorem.

The sleeve protectors fall within textile category designation 659. Based upon international textile trade agreements, products of China are subject to visa requirements and quota restraints.

The designated textile and apparel category may be subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected. Since part categories are the result of international bilateral agreements which are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes, to obtain the most current information available, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the Status Report On Current Import Quotas (Restraint Levels), an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available for inspection at your local Customs Office.

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This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the transaction.

Sincerely,

Michael D'Ambrosio
Service Port Director
St. Albans, Vt.