CLA-2-42-NO:CO:FNIS D09
Tower Group International, Inc.
Attn: Mr. Scott D. Noe
821 2nd Avenue #1400
Seattle, WA 98104
RE: The tariff classification of luggage from various Asian
countries.
Dear Mr. Noe:
In your letter dated April 13, 1998, you requested a tariff
classification ruling on behalf of your client, Skyway Luggage.
Style #1181 was submitted to this office. It is a suitcase
measuring 22" x 5.5" x 8.5" which you state has an outer surface
of 100 percent ramie textile fibers. It has one zippered large
internal pocket and four smaller, external zippered pockets. The
bottom is wheeled. The top is equipped with a handle, as well
as a detachable plastic "J-strap" for pulling the bag.
Provided the outer surface is in chief weight of ramie
fiber, the applicable subheading for the above suitcase will be
4202.12.6000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for trunks, suitcases, vanity cases,
attache cases, briefcases, school satchels and similar
containers, with outer surface of vegetable fibers and not of
pile or tufted construction, other. The rate of duty will be 6.2
percent ad valorem.
Items classifiable under 4202.12.6000 fall within textile
category designation 870. Based upon international textile trade
agreements, products of most countries in Asia are subject to
quota and the requirement of a visa.
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. 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.
Sincerely,
Allen H. Paterson
Port Director
New Orleans, LA