Meerschaum Pipe Bowl from Japan
A hand-carved pipe bowl from authentic meerschaum, a soft mineral carving material ideal for tobacco smoking due to its heat resistance. Classified under HTS 9614.00.25.00 as 'other' pipes or bowls of wood or root equivalents, per chapter notes defining vegetable/mineral carving materials. It requires a separate stem for completion.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
13.2%
Rate breakdown
9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Confirm meerschaum authenticity via lab tests; agglomerated versions still qualify but require proof
• Declare as parts if imported without stem to avoid full pipe valuation issues
• Avoid bulk packaging that could imply industrial use, potentially shifting to Chapter 96 other brooms/brushes