CLA-2-39:R:N2:238 814521

Mr. Joseph J. Chivini
Austin Chemical Company, Inc.
1565 Barclay Boulevard
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089-4537

RE: The tariff classification of hydroxypropyl chitosan (CAS- 84069-44-3), in powder form, from Japan

Dear Chivini:

In your letter dated August 14, 1995, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The subject product, which you refer to as hydroxypropyl chitosan powder, has the CAS registry name of: 2-hydroxy propyl chitosan ether. It is a polysaccharide derivative of chitosan, which, in turn, is obtained by de-acetylation of chitin. You state that it will be used as a "pharmaceutical intermediate."

The applicable subheading for the subject product will be 3913.90.2050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for: "Natural polymers ... and modified natural polymers ... not elsewhere specified or included, in primary forms: Other: Polysaccharides and their derivatives: Other." The rate of duty will be 5.8 percent ad valorem.

This merchandise may be subject to the regulations of the Food and Drug Administration. You may contact them at 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, Maryland 20857, telephone number (301) 443-6553.

This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section 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 C. Reilly at 212-466-5770.

Sincerely,

Roger J. Silvestri
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division