CLA-2-42:RR:NC:TA:341 L87037

Ms. Saralee Antrim-Saizan
Carmichael International Service
533 Glendale Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90026-5097

RE: The tariff classification of a fishing tackle bag from China.

Dear Ms. Antrim-Saizan:

In your letter dated August 16, 2005, on behalf of HYI Hawe Yue, you requested a classification ruling for a fishing tackle bag.

The sample submitted is identified as Model # BW-003A “Jig Bag”. The item is a fishing tackle bag fitted with 16 plastic tubes designed to hold fishing tackles. It is manufactured with an exterior surface of nylon man-made textile material with PVC backing. It measures approximately 6 ¾”(L) x 10 ½”(H) x 6 ¾”(W). It features a mesh lid that closes with a zipper around three sides; a solid nylon pocket on one side and a mesh pocket on the other. The bottom is perforated with a number of holds to facilitate drainage of excess water. The bag is designed to hold 16 tubes, 10”(L) x ½” diameter, which in turn are designed to store 16 large metal fishing jugs or lures (not included).

In your letter you suggested classification under subheading 9507.30.8000, HTSUSA, which provides in part, for “fishing reels and parts and accessories. However, the fishing tackle bag is of a kind similar to the travel and sports bags of heading 4202. Sport bags of HTS 4202 are excluded from classification in subheading 9507.30 by Chapter 95 legal note 1(d). Therefore classification in subheading 9503.30.8000 is precluded and classification in Heading 4202 is more specific.

The applicable subheading for the fishing tackle bag will be 4202.92.3031, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for travel, sports and similar bags, with outer surface of textile material, other, of man-made fibers, other. The duty rate will be 17.6 percent ad valorem.

HTS 4202.92.3031 falls within textile category designation 670. Quota and visa status are the result of international agreements that are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information as to whether quota and visa requirements apply to this merchandise, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the “Textile Status Report for Absolute Quotas” available at our web site at www.cbp.gov. In addition, you will find current information on textile import quotas, textile safeguard actions and related issues at the web site of the Office of Textiles and Apparel, at otexa.ita.doc.gov.

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 646-733-3041.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division