Meerschaum Pipe with Case from Japan
A traditional meerschaum pipe carved from natural mineral block, lightly colored, with a removable amber stem and protective case. Classified under HTS 9614.00.28.90 as an 'other' pipe, since meerschaum is defined as a carving material but not separately headed in 9614 for complete pipes.
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 natural origin of meerschaum to distinguish from agglomerated substitutes, which remain in this code
• Declare if sold with cases separately to avoid set classification issues under packaging rules
• Check for precious metal inlays, as minor amounts stay in Chapter 96 but major ones may shift per notes