The tariff classification of a bamboo table runner from China

N031797 July 18, 2008 CLA-2-46:RR:NC:2:230 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 4602.11.4500 Mr. Ron Levy Customs Brokerage Compliance Kintetsu World Express (U.S.A.), Inc. 18450 S. Wilmington Ave. Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220 RE: The tariff classification of a bamboo table runner from China Dear Mr. Levy: In your letter dated June 20, 2008, on behalf of Noteworthy, a Division of Papermates, Inc., you requested a tariff classification ruling. The ruling was requested on a product identified as a “Bamboo Table Runner.” Samples of the product were submitted for our review. The table runner is a long narrow flat mat designed to protect or cover a portion of the length of a table or dresser. The sample measures 11” wide x 49” long. It is composed of narrow bamboo strips placed side-by-side and woven together with thread. The back of the runner is reinforced with interwoven thread. The borders of the runner are trimmed with polyester fabric. Classification was proposed in subheading 4601.21.4000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), as a partly assembled mat of bamboo. However, the subject table runner is not classifiable in this subheading because it is a fully assembled mat. Furthermore, it is not classifiable within heading 4601 because it is an article made up of plaiting material and other material (the polyester fabric trim). The applicable subheading for the bamboo table runner, described above, will be 4602.11.4500, HTSUS, which provides for: Basketwork, wickerwork and other articles, made directly to shape from plaiting materials or made up from articles of heading 4601: Of vegetable materials: Of bamboo: Other (than baskets and certain enumerated products): Other (than wickerwork). The rate of duty will be 6.6 percent ad valorem. Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/. 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 Paul Garretto at 646-733-3035. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division