CLA-2-42:RR:NC:TA:341 C86640

Mr. Louis S. Shoichet
Siegel, Mandell & Davidson, P.C.
Counselors At Law
One Astor Plaza
1515 Broadway - 43rd FL
New York, NY 10036-8901

RE: The tariff classification of an evening bag from China and/or Taiwan.

Dear Mr. S. Shoichet:

In your letters dated March 11, 1998 and April 14, 1998, on behalf of Avon Products, Inc., you requested a classification ruling for an evening bag.

The sample submitted, identified as "Imari Velvet Drawstring Bag" - PP 166725, is an evening bag of imitation velvet having a braided drawstring closure and a braided shoulder strap. The bag measures approximately 8 inches in length by 7 inches in width with an approximate 2 inch "T" gusset. Your sample is being returned as you requested.

The applicable subheading for the evening bag of imitation velvet with braided shoulder strap will be 4202.22.4030, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for handbags, whether or not with shoulder strap, including those without handle, with outer surface of textile materials, wholly or in part of braid, other, of man-made fibers. The duty rate will be 8 percent ad valorem.

The evening bag falls within textile category designation 670. Based upon international textile trade agreements products of China and Taiwan are subject to quota and the requirement of a visa.

The designated textile and apparel categories may be subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected. 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.

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 Kevin Gorman at 212-466-5893.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division