The tariff classification of Style #71777B,D,K from Macao, Philippines or Taiwan.

NY D82794 October 22, 1998 CLA-2-34:RR:NC:2:236 D82794 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 3406.00.0000 Ms. Christine Basile N56 W1700 Ridgewood Drive Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin 53051 RE: The tariff classification of Style #71777B,D,K from Macao, Philippines or Taiwan. Dear Ms. Basile: In your letter dated September 21, 1998, you requested a tariff classification ruling. You indicate that the candles are made in a two step process where core candles may be first molded, or poured into clay bowls in either the Philippines, Macao or Taiwan and, thereafter, sent to China where decorative items such as leaves, dried flowers, pine cones, cinnamon sticks, and the like, are added to the core. The second step is done by inserting the core candle into a fitted container (or slightly larger mold) and adding the desired decorative items. For those core candles originally poured into clay bowls, the decorations are places on top of the core candle within the bowl. Melted wax is then poured around or onto the core candle and on top of the decorations to affix them to the core. In some cases additional decorative items are attached. All of the wax and decorative items are imported into China and are of non-Chinese origin. By volume, the core candle comprises 95% of the end product. You also submit exhibits and photographs which describe and illustrate the items you wish to import. Style #71777B,D,K are cubed pillar type candles inlaid with various decorations. These items are individually packaged in plastic with or without a ribbon and bow. The applicable subheading for all of the above items will be 3406.00.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, which provides for Candles, tapers and the like. The rate of duty will be 1.2 percent ad valorem. For Customs purpose the country of origin for these items will be either the Philippines, Macao or Taiwan, depending on where the core candles are made. Accordingly, each item must be marked with the appropriate country of origin to comply with 19 CFR 134. 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 V. Gualario at 212-466-5744. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division