The tariff classification of footwear from China

N182556  September 16, 2011 CLA-2-64:OT:RR:NC:N4:447  CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 6405.10.00  Mr. Thomas A. Claypool Native Shoes 1065 Palmerston Avenue West Vancouver, BC Canada V7S 2J4 RE: The tariff classification of footwear from China  Dear Mr. Claypool:In your letter dated August 25, 2011 you requested a tariff classification ruling.The submitted half pair sample identified as style GLM06 “The Fitzsimmons,” is a below-the-ankle lace-up “unisex” shoe with a molded rubber or plastics outer sole. You state that the upper is made of leather, however a visual examination shows the upper to be “flocked” leather which is applied to and (with the exception of a plastic heel counter), completely covers a rubber or plastics base. We would consider this “flocked” leather upper to have an external surface of composition leather. The shoe has a non-removable textile lining which is stitched to the insole.  The applicable subheading for style GLM06 “The Fitzsimmons” will be 6405.10.00, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for other footwear: with uppers of leather or composition leather. The rate of duty will be 10% 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 Stacey Kalkines at (646) 733-3042.Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director National Commodity Specialist Division