Analysis
HTS 9006.59.40 covers other: fixed focus under heading 9006 (photographic (other than cinematographic) cameras; photographic flashlight apparatus and…). US Customs collects import statistics for it under 2 ten-digit suffixes, reported in number of items.
The general duty rate is 4% of the customs value, which is among the highest the rates in chapter 90 (91st percentile of 296 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $400 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
Neighbouring lines carry rates from duty-free to 6.8%, so the exact line matters. The widest gap is with 9006.59.91 (valued over $10 each), at duty-free: a product that belongs there but is entered here, or the reverse, changes the duty by 4 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 4%. 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.
For statistics it divides in two: 9006.59.40.40 for disc cameras and 9006.59.40.60 for other. Both pay the same duty; the suffix records which kind was imported.
Statistical suffixes
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 9006.59.01 | With through-the-lens viewfinder (single lens reflex (SLR)) | Free |
| 9006.59.05 | Hand held: 110 cameras | Free |
| 9006.59.08 | Hand held: other | 4% |
| 9006.59.10 | Fixed focus: other | Free |
| 9006.59.12 | Valued not over $10 each | 6.8% |
| 9006.59.15 | Valued over $10 each | Free |
| 9006.59.20 | Cameras of a kind used for preparing printing plates or cylinders | Free |
| 9006.59.60 | Valued not over $10 each | 6.8% |
| 9006.59.91 | Valued over $10 each | Free |