Natural Rubber Gaskets for Machinery from Japan
Custom-molded gaskets from vulcanized natural rubber used to seal joints in industrial machinery. Classified in HTS 4016.99.3550 as other articles of natural rubber, distinct from hard rubber and not fitting specific prior headings. Its vulcanized form and natural rubber composition dictate this placement per Chapter 40 notes.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Submit detailed material certificates proving 100% natural rubber origin to avoid reclassification to synthetic rubber categories
• Include cross-sectional diagrams showing it's not a simple rod or profile under 4008
• Check for Section XVI exclusions if gaskets are integral parts of electrical appliances