Harmonized System Codes • Schedule B • Harmonized Commodity Description

HS Code 82159920: Base Metal Forks with Rubber or Plastic Handles

When it comes to the international trade of goods, a standardized system is essential for the classification and identification of different products. The Harmonized System (HS) Code is a globally recognized classification system that is used by customs authorities to efficiently and accurately categorize products. In this article, we will explore HS Code 82159920, which pertains to base metal forks with rubber or plastic handles.

HS Code 82159920 specifically refers to forks that are made of base metal (such as stainless steel or iron) and have handles made of rubber or plastic. These forks are commonly used for dining purposes and are designed to provide a comfortable grip while eating.

The HS Code is not just a random number assigned to a product; it carries significant meaning. Each digit in the code represents a specific category, with the first six digits being universally recognized. For HS Code 82159920, the digits can be broken down as follows:

• 82: Chapter - This refers to the chapter of the HS Code that deals with tools, implements, cutlery, and other articles of base metal.
• 15: Heading - This refers to the heading of the HS Code that focuses specifically on base metal cutlery (including forks).
• 99: Sub-heading - This refers to the sub-heading of the HS Code that narrows down the category to forks with rubber or plastic handles.
• 20: Specific Product - This refers to the specific product within the sub-heading, which in this case is base metal forks with rubber or plastic handles.

Understanding the HS Code is crucial for importers and exporters as it helps in determining the correct classification of goods and enables the calculation of import duties and taxes. In the case of HS Code 82159920, the bound or Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.5 cents each, along with an additional 3.2% duty whenever a country lowers a trade barrier or opens up a market. This means that for every base metal fork with a rubber or plastic handle imported, a duty of 0.5 cents plus 3.2% of the value will be levied.

However, there are special tariff preference programs that may exempt certain countries from paying duties on these base metal forks. Some of these programs include:

• Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) - This program provides duty-free treatment for eligible products from various developing countries.
• Australia Special Rate - Australia has a special rate agreement for these forks, reducing or eliminating the duty.
• Bahrain Special Rate - Bahrain also has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• NAFTA for Canada and Mexico - Under the North American Free Trade Agreement, these forks receive duty-free treatment when traded between Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
• Chile Special Rate - Chile has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) - Certain Caribbean countries may qualify for duty-free treatment under this program.
• Israel Special Rate - Israel has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) - Certain Andean countries may qualify for duty-free treatment under this program.
• Jordan Special Rate - Jordan has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Morocco Special Rate - Morocco has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Oman Special Rate - Oman has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Dominican Republic-Central American Special Rate (DR-CAFTA) - Certain Central American countries and the Dominican Republic may qualify for duty-free treatment under this program.
• Peru Special Rate - Peru has a special rate agreement for these forks.
• Singapore Special Rate - Singapore has a special rate agreement for these forks.

It is important for importers and exporters to consider these special tariff preference programs to potentially reduce or eliminate the duty costs associated with HS Code 82159920.

HS Code 82159920 refers to base metal forks with rubber or plastic handles. This code is used for the classification, identification, and regulation of these forks in international trade. Importers and exporters should familiarize themselves with the HS Code and the associated duty rates and special tariff preference programs to ensure compliance and optimize their trade activities.