CLA-2-14:RR:NC:2:228 B84744

Ms. Christina P. Bond
Long International Logistics Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 58587
Raleigh, NC 27658

RE: The tariff classification of animal bedding from France

Dear Ms. Bond:

In your letter dated April 17, 1997, on behalf of D'Ecolit Inc., Dinslaken, Germany, and Rick Sommers, Fayetteville, NC, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

Descriptive literature and a sample accompanied your letter, and additional information was submitted on May 13, 1997. "D'ECOlit" is an animal bedding material made from the marrow remaining after the process of beating or "smashing" the flax plant. This material is cleaned and cut into pieces approximately one inch in length, packed into plastic bags and sealed. The product will initially be sold to horse breeders and stable operators, and your client hopes to expand sales to livestock and pet owners.

The applicable subheading for the animal bedding material will be 1404.90.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for vegetable products not elsewhere specified or included...other. The rate of duty will be free.

The importation of this merchandise may be subject to restrictions imposed by the United States Department of Agriculture and/or Food and Drug Administration. It is suggested you contact these agencies directly for further information.

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 Stanley Hopard at 212-466-5760.

Sincerely,

Gwenn Klein Kirschner
Chief, Special Products Branch
National Commodity
Specialist Division