Synthetic Mesh Casual Sneakers from Germany
Low-top sneakers featuring uppers made primarily from synthetic textile mesh (polyester) for breathability, with outer soles where textile materials dominate the ground-contact surface area (not qualifying as durable under US note 5). Valued between $3-$6.50/pair, soles are rubber/plastic affixed exclusively by adhesive without foxing or overlapping. Falls under 6404.19.61 due to non-vegetable fiber textile uppers and specified sole construction.
Duty Rate — Germany → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.380%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92 and 9903.05.97, articles the product of a member state of the European Union, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 equal to or greater than 10 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Measure external surface area of upper and sole materials per Chapter Note 4 to confirm textile dominance; declare value accurately to stay in $3-$6.50 range
• Provide lab tests proving sole textile lacks durability/strength per US Note 5; avoid foxing-like bands to prevent reclassification