Straw Plait Bands from Japan
Narrow bands or strips of plaited straw, bound parallel for hat-making or decorative use. HTS 4601.94.40.00 covers such other vegetable plaits in strip form, not assembled into headgear (excluded to Chapter 65). Meets definition of plaiting materials like straw in chapter 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
• Explicitly state 'not for headgear assembly' in invoices to dodge Chapter 65
• Test for gluten content if wheat straw; may need FDA food-contact certs
• Store dry to prevent splintering, a common damage claim issue