The tariff classification of a handbag from the Philippines.

NY E88075 October 13, 1999 CLA-2-42:RR:NC:341:E88075 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 4202.22.4500 Ms. Ludene Murphree Gap Inc. One Harrison Street San Francisco, CA 94105 RE: The tariff classification of a handbag from the Philippines. Dear Ms. Murphree: In your letter dated October 1st, 1999, you requested a classification ruling for a handbag from the Philippines. The sample submitted with your request is identified as style #144669, "sling bag". The item is a handbag designed to carry money, keys, and small accessories during travel. It is manufactured wholly of 100% cotton textile material and measures approximately 10 1/8" in height by 8 7/8" in width. The top opening of the bag is secured by a center hook and loop closure. The applicable subheading for style #144669 will be 4202.22.4500, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for handbags, whether or not with shoulder strap…with outer surface of textile materials, other, of vegetable fibers and not of pile or tufted construction, of cotton. The duty rate will be 6.8% ad valorem. Items classifiable under HTS subheading 4202.22.4500 fall within textile category designation 369. Based upon international textile trade agreements products of the Philippines 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). Your sample is being returned as requested. 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