CLA-2-90:S:N:N3:114 810556

Mr. Naum Shnaider
Tander-Link, Inc.
1361 Prentiss Avenue
New Orleans, Louisiana 70122

RE: The tariff classification of optical windows and blanks from Russia and Ukraine

Dear Mr. Shnaider:

In your letter dated May 13, 1995 you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The optical windows and blanks are composed of barium fluoride; calcium fluoride; germanium; lithium fluoride; magnesium fluoride; sapphire; silicon; zinc selenide; and potassium chloride. The optical windows are finished products and are flat on both sides. Blanks, which are in the shape and size of the finished optical element and require grinding and polishing after importation, may also be imported.

Magnesium fluoride and sapphire optical windows and blanks will be used in devices which operate in the ultraviolet range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The other products are used in devices which operate in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The applicable subheading for the optical windows and blanks will be 9001.90.9000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for other optical elements, of any material, unmounted. The duty rate will be 7.3 percent ad valorem.

Articles classifiable under subheading 9001.90.9000, HTS, which are products of Russia or Ukraine are entitled to duty free treatment under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) upon compliance with all applicable regulations.

This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the documents have been filed without a copy, this ruling should be brought to the attention of the Customs officer handling the transaction.

Sincerely,

Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport