CLA-2-56:S:N:N3H:351 873047

Ms. Susan J. Taillon
Polsam, Inc.
1530 McDaniel Drive
West Chester, PA 19380

RE: The tariff classification of elastic cords from Taiwan.

Dear Ms. Taillon:

In your letter dated March 27, 1992, you requested a tariff classification ruling.

You have submitted three samples of braided elastic cords that will primarily be used for gift wrapping and possibly for making restaurant menus. The first sample, a red elastic cord, is made of polyester yarns covering a black rubber thread core. The second sample, a gold elastic cord, is made with 8 metalized strips covering a rubber core. The third sample, a gold elastic cord, is made with three yellow yarns and 4 metalized strips covering a rubber core. The gold metallic strips in the two gold cords measure approximately 0.5 millimeters (mm) in width. The three round cords measure between 1 and 2 mm in diameter, and each has a rubber core covered with textile braid. The cords will be imported on spools or cones in continuous lengths (untied) of approximately 50 to 100 feet.

The applicable subheading for the elastic cords will be 5604.10.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for rubber thread and cord, textile covered. The rate of duty will be 7.2 percent ad valorem.

The elastic cords fall within textile category designation 201. Based upon international textile trade agreements, products of Taiwan are subject to the requirement of a visa and quota restraints. The designated textile and apparel category may be subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected. Since 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 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