CLA-2 CO:R:C:G 086206 SR
John M. Peterson
Neville, Peterson, & Williams
39 Broadway
New York, NY 10006
RE: Slipper Pouches
Dear Mr. Peterson:
This is in reference to your letter dated December 14, 1989,
requesting the tariff classification of pouches for slippers
under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
Annotated (HTSUSA). The country of origin for this merchandise
was not provided. For purposes of this ruling we will assume
that it is a country that is under the General Duty Rate column.
FACTS:
The merchandise at issue is a textile pouch that will be
imported and sold with a pair of Aris-Isotoner Comfort Slippers.
The pouch measures approximately 7 1/2 inches in length by 5 1/2
inches in width; with a drawstring closure at the top. It is
constructed of a woven twill fabric which is constructed of a
blend of 65 percent polyester and 35 percent cotton fibers.
ISSUE:
What is the classification of the pouch at issue?
LAW AND ANALYSIS:
Classification of goods under the HTSUSA is governed by the
General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), taken in order. GRI 5(a)
-2-
provides the following:
Camera cases, musical instrument cases, gun cases, drawing
instrument cases, necklace cases and similar containers,
specially shaped or fitted to contain a specific article or
set of articles, suitable for long-term use and entered with
the articles for which they are intended, shall be
classified with such articles when of a kind normally sold
therewith. This rule does not, however, apply to containers
which give the whole its essential character.
The merchandise at issue does not meet these qualifications.
It is not fitted to contain a specific article. Similar pouches
are used to hold jewelry or perfume.
Heading 6307, HTSUSA, provides for other made up articles.
The Explanatory Notes provide the official interpretation of the
tariff at the international level. The Explanatory Notes to
heading 6307 provides that this heading covers articles of any
textile material, including: (5) domestic laundry or shoe bags.
Therefore, the merchandise at issue is classifiable under heading
6307, HTSUSA.
HOLDING:
The slipper pouch at issue is classifiable under subheading
6307.90.9050, as other made up articles, other, other. The rate
of duty is 7 percent ad valorem.
Sincerely,
John Durant, Director
Commercial Rulings Division