The tariff classification of nonwoven fabric, for use in the manufacture of narrow strips of material for mop heads, from Italy.

NY M82955 May 4, 2006 CLA-2-56:RR:NC:TA:350 M82955 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 5603.94.9090 Mr. James E. Unger CBC Customhouse Brokers, Inc. 143 N. Bloomingdale Road Bloomingdale, IL 60108 RE: The tariff classification of nonwoven fabric, for use in the manufacture of narrow strips of material for mop heads, from Italy. Dear Mr. Unger: In your letter dated April 18, 2006, which was a follow-up to an earlier inquiry where we requested additional information, you requested a tariff classification ruling. This request is on behalf of Libman Company, Inc., Arcola, IL. The instant samples, as described in your correspondence, consist of nonwoven strips of material that are composed of viscose/polyester staple man-made fibers. According to your letter, the fibers are thermally bonded first, and then chemically and mechanically bonded. You describe the process as follows: 40% chemically, 30% thermally and 30% mechanically. A breakdown submitted with your inquiry provides the following composition, by weight: Polyester: 45% Viscose: 45% Synthetic resins: 10% Total: 100% You state that this material will be imported as roll goods having 53-centimeter widths and running 240 yards in length. This material weighs 240 grams per square meter. The applicable subheading for the material will be 5603.94.9090, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated, weighing more than 150g/m², not laminated, other, … of staple fibers. The duty rate will be Free. Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/. 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 Deborah Walsh at 646-733-3044. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division