CLA-2-40:RR:NC:3:353 B85759

Mr. Paul M. Lichstein
Beijing Trade Exchange, Inc.
701 E Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003

RE: The tariff classification of a rubber apron from China.

Dear Mr. Lichstein:

In your letter dated June 4, 1997, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The submitted sample is a apron consisting of cotton fabric coated on both sides with rubber. Two polyester laces are included that are used to secure the apron at the back of the waist and neck area.

You state that the rubberized fabric weighs more than 1,500 grams per square meter and contains less than 50% by weight of textile material.

The applicable subheading for the rubber apron will be 4015.90.0010, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Articles of apparel and clothing accessories (including gloves), for all purposes, of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber: Other, Aprons. The rate of duty will be 4.4 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 Martin Weiss at 212-466-5881.

Sincerely,

Paul K. Schwartz
Chief, Textiles & Apparel Branch
National Commodity
Specialist Division