CLA-2-42:PD:A:TC:I:G08 PD B80156

Ludene Murphree
GAP, Inc.
345 Spear Street
San Francisco, California 94105

RE: The tariff classification of three nylon handbags from China.

Dear Ms. Murphree:

In your letter dated December 4, 1996, on behalf of Banana Republic, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

You have submitted three sample bags. All three styles are handbags with an outer surface of nylon textile material. Style 168804 is a shopper type tote variety of a handbag. It has double bamboo handles, a detachable nylon shoulder strap, one interior zippered pocket and a zippered closure across the top of the bag. Style 168805 has a single bamboo handle and a detachable nylon shoulder strap. Additionally, there is a large zippered pocket in its center which divides the bag into two interior sections. Style 168883 has double bamboo handles, a zippered interior pocket and a magnetic snap closure at its top. Approximate dimensions for the bags are as follows: 6x12x13 inches (style 168804), 3.5x9x11 inches (style 168805) and 5x10x10.5 (style 168883).

The applicable subheading for the handbags will be 4202.22.8050, 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, other, other, of man-made fibers. The rate of duty will be 19.5 percent ad valorem.

The handbags fall within textile category designation 670. 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 may be subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected. Part categories are the result of international bilateral agreements which are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information available, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the Status Report on Current Import Quotas (Restraint Levels), an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available for inspection at your local Customs office.

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.

Sincerely,

"Signed by"

Jayson P. Ahern
Port Director
Miami International Airport