CLA-2-45:RR:NC:SP:230 D85365
Ms. Ida Dearinger
Rialto International, Inc.
P.O. Box 24583
Seattle, WA 98124
RE: The tariff classification of a bottle stopper from Italy.
Dear Ms. Dearinger:
In your letter dated December 3, 1998, on behalf of your
client, il cinghiale (Seattle, WA), you requested a tariff
classification ruling.
A sample was submitted and is being returned to you as
requested. It is a natural cork bottle stopper which has a
decorative, knob-like ceramic handle permanently attached at the
top. The cork portion of the article tapers from a diameter of
slightly over 19 mm at the upper end to about 16 mm at the lower
end, and is approximately 30 mm in length. The cork, in view of
its predominant role in the function of the stopper, is
considered to be the component which imparts the essential
character of the overall product.
The applicable subheading for the above-described
cork/ceramic stopper will be 4503.10.4000, Harmonized Tariff
Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for articles
of natural cork: corks and stoppers: tapered and of a thickness
(or length) greater than the maximum diameter: other (than with a
maximum diameter not over 19 mm): other (than wholly of cork).
For the remainder of 1998, the rate of duty will be 3.1 cents per
kilogram based on the total net weight. Effective January 1,
1999, the rate of duty will be free.
We note that the sample is not marked with its country of
origin. When imported into the United States, the item (or, if
applicable, its immediate container which will reach the ultimate
purchaser) will be required to be so marked (e.g., "Made in
Italy"), legibly, in a conspicuous place, and in a manner
sufficiently permanent to reach the ultimate purchaser.
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 Paul
Garretto at 212-466-5779.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division