The tariff classification of zinc air batteries from Switzerland

NY H88215 March 6, 2002 CLA-2-85:RR:NC:1:112 H88215 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8506.60.0000 Mr. Henry Kessler Renata Consumer Batteries 10455 Olympic Drive Dallas, TX 75220 RE: The tariff classification of zinc air batteries from Switzerland Dear Mr. Kessler: In your letter dated January 31, 2002 you requested a tariff classification ruling. As indicated by the submitted sample and information, the zinc air batteries are the “button type” that are used in hearing aids, watches, and a number of electronic devices. They are not rechargeable. The applicable subheading for the zinc air batteries will be 8506.60.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for air-zinc primary cells and primary batteries. The rate of duty will be 2.7 percent ad valorem. Subheading 9817.00.96, HTS, applies to parts and accessories of articles that are specially designed or adapted for the use or benefit of the blind or other physically or mentally handicapped persons. The technical information provided indicates that these batteries have use in various electronic devices. Accordingly, absent evidence that the batteries are specially designed or adapted for use in hearing aids, subheading 9817.00.96, HTS, would not be applicable. 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 David Curran at 646-733-3017. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division