The tariff classification of handbags from China.

NY E87626 September 27, 1999 CLA-2-42:RR:NC:TA:341 E87626 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 4202.22.4500 Ms. Ann Vietello Etienne Aigner 47 Brunswick Avenue Edison, NJ 08818-3111 RE: The tariff classification of handbags from China. Dear Ms. Vietello: In your letter dated September 13, 1999, you requested a classification ruling for handbags. You have submitted four samples, identified as “Etienne Aigner” style numbers JZ289E, JZ289C, JZ289K and JZ289L, which are ladies handbags manufactured with an exterior surface of 100 percent cotton canvas fabric with PVC straps and trim. Their size ranges from approximately 8 ½”(W) x 10 ¼”(H) to 13”(W) x 11”(H). They are secured by means of either a flap with a snap fastener, a top snap fastener or a zippered closure. Your samples are being returned as requested. The applicable subheading for the handbags of 100 percent cotton will be 4202.22.4500, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for handbags, whether or not with shoulder strap, including those without handle, with outer surface of textile materials, of vegetable fibers and not of pile or tufted construction, of cotton. The duty rate will be 6.8 percent ad valorem. HTS 4202.22.4500 falls within textile category designation 369. 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 and their quota and visa status are the result of international agreements that are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the U.S. Customs Service Textile Status Report, an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available at the Customs Web site at www.customs.gov. In addition, 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 and should also be verified at the time of shipment. 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 Kevin Gorman at 212-637-7091. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division