CLA-2-96:S:N:N1:231

Mr. Arthur Mindle
U.S. Catalytic Corporation
870 Napa Valley Corporate Way
Suite K
Napa, CA 94558

RE: The tariff classification of three gas matches from Japan and Taiwan.

Dear Mr. Mindle:

In your letter dated February 26, 1990 you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The products in question consist of three gas matches (items #GM-1 and #GM-2 from Japan and item #GM-3 from Taiwan). These products are described as hand held all-purpose piezo-electric butane flame igniters used to light barbecues, fireplaces, camping stoves, pilot lights, portable space heaters, torches, and other industrial applications. The applicable subheading for these gas matches will be 9613.80.2000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for cigarette lighters and other lighters, whether or not mechanical or electrical, and parts thereof other then flints and wicks: other lighters: electrical. The duty rate will be 3.9 percent ad valorem.

Articles classifiable under subheading 9613.80.2000, HTS, which are products of Taiwan are entitled to duty free treatment under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) upon compliance with all applicable regulations.

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,

Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport