Analysis
HTS 4012.90.30 covers bicycle rim strips under heading 4012 (retreaded or used pneumatic tires of rubber; solid or cushion tires, tire treads and tire…).
Rates on the nearby lines range from duty-free to 4.2%. The costliest confusion would be with 4012.90.45 (of natural rubber: other) at 4.2%, a difference of 4.2 points on the customs value.
Goods from countries without normal trade relations pay the column 2 rate of 35% instead of nothing, so origin decides between free entry and a 35% duty.
There is no general-rate duty on this line, which puts it with roughly 39% of the 142 tariff lines in chapter 40 that are also free. Duty-free at the general rate does not rule out additional duties under Chapter 99, such as Section 301 or Section 232 measures, which depend on the country of origin.
The other lines in the same group are 4012.90.10 (solid or cushion tires, duty-free), 4012.90.45 (of natural rubber: other, 4.2%), 4012.90.70 (bicycle rim strips, duty-free) and 4012.90.90 (other: other, 2.7%).
Census statistics map these goods to NAICS 326211 (Tire Manufacturing (except Retreading)), an industry of 128 US establishments employing 52,211 people, the industry a domestic producer of these goods reports under.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 4012.90.10 | Solid or cushion tires | Free |
| 4012.90.45 | Of natural rubber: other | 4.2% |
| 4012.90.70 | Bicycle rim strips | Free |
| 4012.90.90 | Other: other | 2.7% |