Palm Leaf Panama Hat from Japan
A lightweight hat crafted by sewing strips of dried palm leaves into a Panama-style shape with a high crown and wide brim. Classified in HTS 6504.00.90.45 for headgear made by assembling strips via sewing, distinguishing it from fully woven plaited hats. Often features a leather or fabric sweatband inside.
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
• Document the sewing process explicitly, as palm leaf hats can be confused with plaited 6504.00.20 if weaving predominates
• Check for pesticide residues on natural plant strips, as agricultural import rules may apply alongside tariff classification
• Ensure trimming like ribbons doesn't exceed 10% value to avoid reclassification as trimmed headgear in other subheadings