The tariff classification of a bath sponge from Taiwan.

NY G89474 April 27, 2001 CLA-2-63:RR:NC:TA:349 G89474 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 6302.99.2000 Ms. Alice Liu Atico International USA, Inc. 501 South Andrews Avenue Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 RE: The tariff classification of a bath sponge from Taiwan. Dear Ms. Liu: In your letter dated March 29, 2001 you requested a classification ruling. The submitted sample Item #W08D7210 is a bath sponge. The face side of the sponge is made from 89.5 percent ramie and 10.5 percent polyethylene knit fabric. The reverse side is made from 92 percent cotton and 8 percent polyester knit terry fabric. The sponge is filled with a solid piece of foam. The back portion of the sponge features an elastic strap. This item is used in the bath as an exfoliator. The essential character of this sponge is imparted by the ramie blend fabric. As requested the sample is being returned. The applicable subheading for the bath sponge will be 6302.99.2000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for bed linen, table linen, toilet linen and kitchen linen: other: of other textile materials: other. The duty rate will be 8.7 percent ad valorem. Item #W08D7210 falls within textile category designation 899. Based upon international textile trade agreements products of Taiwan are subject to quota and the requirement of a visa. 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 John Hansen at 212-637-7078. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division