The tariff classification of a suitcase with outer surface of ramie fabric from China

PD B89075 September 12, 1997 CLA-2-42 SE:C:D G02 B89075 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 4202.12.6000 Janice Markee Medela, Inc. P.O. Box 660 McHenry, Illinois 60051-0660 RE: The tariff classification of a suitcase with outer surface of ramie fabric from China Dear Ms. Markee: In your letter dated August 20, 1997 you requested a tariff classification ruling. The item which Medela, Inc. intends to import is an item you identify in your letter as a "Bilibed Carrying Case" which you state will be used as a carrying case for a "photo therapy baby bed." The item is a suitcase measuring approximately 26 x 14 x 5 1/2 inches and having a zip around closure, an exterior side zippered pocket, an interior side textile mesh open top pocket, a single carry handle, an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap having bayonet clip slide buckles at either end, and semirigid plastic panels encased in its sides serving as a frame and maintaining the shape of the suitcase. According to your letter, the outer surface of the bag is composed of a fabric which is 55 percent ramie and 45 percent polyester by weight. The applicable subheading for the suitcase will be 4202.12.6000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, ... and similar containers, with outer surface of textile materials, of vegetable fibers and not of pile or tufted constuction, other. The rate of duty will be 6.3 percent ad valorem. Item 4202.12.6000 falls within textile category designation 870. Based upon international textile trade agreements, products of China are subject to quota and the requirement of a visa. 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. Part categories are the result of international bilateral agreements which are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information available, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the Status Report on Current Import Quotas (Restraint Levels), an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available for inspection at your local Customs office. This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177). The sample is being returned herewith in accordance with your request. 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. Sincerely, Artis M. Morgan, Jr. Port Director Seattle By: Nancy K. Johnson Supervisory Import Specialist