THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN MARKING OF STEEL COILS

NY B85338 May 23, 1997 MAR-2 RR:NC:1:117 B85338 CATEGORY: MARKING Mr. Peter K. Schlesinger Atlantic Customs Brokers, Inc. 1975 Linden Boulevard Elmont, NY 11003 RE: THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN MARKING OF STEEL COILS Dear Mr. Schlesinger: This is in response to your letter dated April 30, 1997, requesting a marking ruling on steel coils manufactured in Lipetsk, Russia, C.I.E.. You ask as to whether or not marking this merchandise with either "CIE" or "Commonwealth of Independent States" would be considered acceptable alternatives for country of origin Russia. Since December 25, 1991, the United States has recognized all of the former Soviet republics as independent countries. Accordingly, in order to satisfy the requirements of 19 U.S.C. 1304, articles imported from the former Soviet Union must be marked with the English name of the independent country from which they originate. Treasury Decision 92-38, dated April 2, 1992, lists the English names and the correct spellings of these new independent countries. As indicated in T.D. 92-38, marking an article with either the long form name (Russian Federation) or the short form name (Russia) was found to be acceptable. The marking "Commonwealth of Independent States" was found to be unacceptable because it does not designate a nation state recognized by the United States. Therefore, marking the subject merchandise with country of origin "C.I.E." is also not permissible. This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 CFR Part 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 Paula Ilardi at 212-466-5476. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Chief, Metals & Machinery Branch National Commodity Specialist Division