CLA-2-85:OT:RR:NC:N1:108
Mr. Sergio Langarica
Sony Electronics Inc.
16530 Via Esprillo, MZ 1028
San Diego, CA 92127
RE: The tariff classification of a home theater system package from China
Dear Mr. Langarica:
In your letter dated April 3, 2015, you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The merchandise under consideration is the Sony Home Theater System, model HT-XT100. The HT-XT100, which is capable of reproducing music files directly from a USB memory apparatus, includes four speakers (two tweeters in the front, a bass reflex at the rear and a subwoofer pointing downward) contained within a single enclosure. In addition, this sound reproducing device has sound amplification and surround sound technology.
The HT-XT100 is imported and packaged as a set, for tariff classification purposes, with the following: a remote control with two AAA batteries, a 1.5-meter optical digital cable, operating instructions, and a quick startup guide. It is the opinion of this office that the speaker unit with sound reproducing capability is the essential character of this set.
In your request, you suggest that this merchandise be classified in subheading 8519.89.3020, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for Sound recording or reproducing apparatus: Other apparatus: Using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media: Sound reproducing only: Other: Other. However, this merchandise is more specifically classified elsewhere in the tariff.
The applicable subheading for this merchandise will be 8519.81.4050, HTSUS, which provides for Sound recording or reproducing apparatus: Other apparatus: Using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media: Other: Other. The rate of duty will be Free.
Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 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 Lisa Cariello at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Gwenn Klein Kirschner
Director
National Commodity Specialist Division