Analysis
HTS 7116.20.40 covers of semiprecious stones (except rock crystal): other under heading 7116 (articles of natural or cultured pearls, precious or semiprecious stones (natural…).
Neighbouring lines carry rates from duty-free to 6.5%, so the exact line matters. The widest gap is with 7116.20.50 (other: other), at duty-free: a product that belongs there but is entered here, or the reverse, changes the duty by 10.5 percentage points.
Goods that qualify under GSP, the Australia FTA, the Bahrain FTA, the Chile FTA, the Colombia TPA, and 12 others can enter duty-free instead of paying 10.5%. It is also eligible under GSP, the developing-country programme, which Congress has to renew; check whether GSP is in force on the entry date.
The general duty rate is 10.5% of the customs value, which is among the highest the rates in chapter 71 (95th percentile of 108 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $1,050 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
The column 2 rate, for countries without normal trade relations, is 50%, 4.8 times the general rate.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 7116.20.05 | Valued not over $40 per piece | 3.3% |
| 7116.20.15 | Articles of jewelry: other | 6.5% |
| 7116.20.30 | Graded semiprecious stones strung temporarily for convenience of transport | 2.1% |
| 7116.20.35 | Figurines of semiprecious stone | 4.5% |
| 7116.20.50 | Other: other | Free |