The tariff classification of handbags from China

NY F81620 January 13, 2000 CLA-2-42:RR:NC:341:F81620 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 4202.22.1500; 4202.22.8050 Ms. Nancy Carson Amasia Int'l. LTD 34 Third Ave. Burlington, MA 01803 RE: The tariff classification of handbags from China Dear Ms. Carson: In your letter dated January 5th, 2000, you requested a classification ruling. The samples submitted with your request are handbags that are designed to carry money, keys, and small personal effects on a daily basis. Style #H008 measures approximately 10 1/2" x 8 x 4 3/4" (fully extended) and is secured by a magnetic snap closure. The front flap of the bag has an exterior surface of 100% polyester textile material and the remainder of the exterior surface of the bag is of a sheeting of plastic. The interior of the bag is lined and consists of three compartments separated by two zippered pockets. An adjustable shoulder strap is permanently attached to the bag. Style #H034 measures approximately 9 1/2" x 4 1/4" x 2 1/4" and is made of 100% nylon. The interior of the bag is unlined and secured by a zippered closure. An adjustable strap of nylon webbing enables the user to wear the bag around one's waist. The applicable subheading for #H008 will be 4202.22.1500, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for handbags, whether or not with shoulder strap…with outer surface of sheeting of plastic. The duty rate will be 17.6% ad valorem. The applicable subheading for #H034 will be 4202.22.8050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for handbags, whether or not with shoulder strap…with outer surface of textile materials, other, other, other, of man-made fibers. The duty rate will be 18.6% ad valorem. Items classifiable under HTS subheading 4202.22.8050 fall within textile category designation 670. Based upon international textile trade agreements products of China are subject to quota and the requirement of a visa. This office does not provide information on the cost of the quota. Please contact the manufacturer for this information. The designated textile and apparel categories and their quota and visa status are the result of international agreements that are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the U.S. Customs Service Textile Status Report, an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available at the Customs Web site at www.customs.gov. In addition, the designated textile and apparel categories may be subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected and should also be verified at the time of shipment. 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 212-637-7091. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division