N326874

N326874 July 18, 2022 CLA-2-68:OT:RR:NC:N1:128 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 6811.89.9000; 9903.88.03 Mr. Matthew A. Clark Kuehne & Nagel 20000 S Western Avenue Torrance, CA 90501 RE: The tariff classification of fiber-cement fire pits from China. Dear Mr. Clark: In your letter dated June 30, 2022, you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of your client, Bond Manufacturing Co. Inc. The merchandise under consideration is two styles of fire pits, Model 52043 and Model 52052. Both models are designed to be used outdoors as heat sources. Model 52043 measures approximately 36 inches in diameter by 23.8 inches high at its widest points. The outer body of this fire pit consists of a material referred to as “Envirostone.” From the information you provided, Envirostone is composed of magnesium oxide cement uniformly agglomerated with glass fibers. This outer body houses a propane-fueled burner system. Model 52052 measures approximately 36.2 inches in diameter by 23.8 inches at its widest points. The outer body is also made of Envirostone cement, with a top surface of natural stone. This outer body houses a propane-fueled burner system. Models 52043 and 52052 are comprised of different materials that are classifiable in different headings. Classification of merchandise under the HTSUS is in accordance with the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) taken in order. GRI 3(b) of the HTSUS provides, in relevant part, that composite goods which cannot be classified by reference to GRI 3(a) shall be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. The fiber-cement component provides the essential character of the fire pit. In your ruling request you suggest classification of these fire pits in 7321.81.1000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) as other portable nonelectric iron or steel domestic appliances for gas fuel. However, fire pits are properly classified according to their constituent material of their outer body. The outer body of the two fire pits is made of non-iron or steel materials. Therefore, the articles are not considered made of iron or steel, and heading 7321 is precluded. The applicable subheading for the fire pits, Model 52043 and Model 52052 will be 6811.89.9000, HTSUS, which provides for “Articles of asbestos-cement, of cellulose fiber-cement or the like: Not containing asbestos: Other articles: Other articles.” The general rate of duty will be Free. Pursuant to U.S. Note 20 to Subchapter III, Chapter 99, HTSUS, products of China classified under subheading 6811.89.9000, HTSUS, unless specifically excluded, are subject to an additional 25 percent ad valorem rate of duty. At the time of importation, you must report the Chapter 99 subheading, i.e., 9903.88.03, in addition to subheading 6811.89.9000, HTSUS, listed above. The HTSUS is subject to periodic amendment, so you should exercise reasonable care in monitoring the status of goods covered by the Note cited above and the applicable Chapter 99 subheading. For background information regarding the trade remedy initiated pursuant to Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, including information on exclusions and their effective dates, you may refer to the relevant parts of the USTR and CBP websites, which are available at https://ustr.gov/issue-areas/enforcement/section-301-investigations/tariff-actions and https://www.cbp.gov/trade/remedies/301-certain-products-china, respectively. 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 the World Wide Web at https://hts.usitc.gov/current. 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 Nicole Sullivan at nicole.d.sullivan@cbp.dhs.gov. Sincerely, Steven A. Mack Director National Commodity Specialist Division