CLA-2-96:S:N:N1:110 854522

Ms. Ruth Kleinstein
Japan Freight Consolidators (Calif.), Inc.
Cargo Bldg. No. 75, JFK International Airport
Jamaica, N.Y. 11430

RE: The tariff classification of inked nylon ribbons and ink tanks from Japan.

Dear Ms. Kleinstein:

In your letter dated July 18, 1990, on behalf of Shirasaki U.S.A. Corp., you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The merchandise under consideration includes an inked nylon seamless loop and ink tanks that are designed for use with computer printers.

The nylon seamless loop is basically a woven man-made fiber ribbon that is inked, and approximately 3/8 of an inch in width. The ribbon is not on a spool or in a cartridge, and is normally used in a dot-matrix printer. It appears that the seamless loop ribbon and one of the ink tanks will be placed into a cartridge for use in a printer.

The applicable subheading for the inked nylon seamless loop will be 9612.10.9010, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for other ribbons of man-made fibers, inked or otherwise prepared for giving impressions. The duty rate will be 9 percent ad valorem. The inked nylon seamless loop ribbon falls within textile category designation 621. As a product of Japan this merchandise is subject to quota restraints and visa requirements based upon international textile agreements.

Due to the changeable nature of these agreements you are advised to contact your local Customs office prior to importation of this merchandise to determine the current status of any import restraints or requirements.

Your inquiry does not provide enough information for us to give a classification ruling on the ink tanks. Your request for a classification ruling should include specific details as to the use of the ink tanks, the composition of the ink contained in the container (pigment, solvent, binder), and how the ink tank interplays with the seamless loop material. I suggest that you furnish a sample or literature of the complete cartridge that the ink tanks are placed into.

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