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June 30, 1999

CLA-2-64:RR:NC:TA:347 E83563

CATEGORY: CLASSIFICATION

TARIFF NO.: 6406.99.3060

Mr. Paul M. Lichstein
Beijing Trade Exchange, Inc.
701 E Street, SE.
Washington, DC 20003

RE: The tariff classification of a removable shoe insole from China

Dear Mr. Lichstein:

In your letter dated June 16, 1999 you requested a tariff classification ruling.

The submitted sample is a removable shoe insole, style number 5420 is indicated. It is completely flat, approximately 1/8-inch thick and consists of two thin cushioning layers of polyurethane foam plastic and a single thin cotton/polyester fabric sock lining layer. The entire insole is covered with tiny evenly spaced perforations to facilitate, as you state, airflow around the foot. It also provides additional shock absorption for the foot.

Removable insoles are provided for in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) heading 6406, which provides for parts of footwear (including uppers whether or not attached to soles other than outer soles): removable insoles, heel cushions and similar articles. Additionally, classification of merchandise under the HTS is governed by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI’s), taken in order. GRI 3(b) provides that composite goods consisting of different materials or made up of different components shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character.

This insole is a composite good consisting of both textile and foamed plastic components. Based on factors such as bulk, weight, value, or the role of the constituent materials in relation to use (i.e., to shape the insole and to cushion the foot for shock absorption), it is our determination that the essential character of this insole is imparted by its plastic components.

The applicable subheading for this shoe insole will be 6406.99.3060, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for parts of footwear, which are removable insoles or heel cushions or similar articles, and which are essentially of rubber and/or plastics. The rate of duty will be 5.3% ad valorem.

We are returning the sample as you requested.

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 Richard Foley at 212-637-7089.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Director,

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