5702.31 - Of wool or fine animal hair:

This HTS category, 5702.31, specifically addresses woven carpets and other textile floor coverings that are constructed with a pile, are not tufted or flocked, and are not yet made up into finished floor coverings. The defining characteristic of this subcategory is its composition, which must be exclusively of wool or fine animal hair. This distinction is crucial for accurate classification within the broader scope of Chapter 57, which deals with various types of carpets and floor coverings.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is essential for correct tariff application. Unlike 5702.32, which covers pile floor coverings of man-made textile materials, or 5702.39, which encompasses those made from other textile materials, 5702.31 narrows the focus solely to items made from wool or fine animal hair, such as cashmere, mohair, or alpaca. This material requirement is the primary differentiating factor at this level of the tariff schedule.

Within 5702.31, further subdivisions are provided to refine classification based on the specific type of pile construction. The subcategories, 5702.31.10.00 and 5702.31.20.00, differentiate between specific types of pile construction like Wilton and velvet (including tapestry) floor coverings and those of a like character or description, versus all other types not fitting those specific descriptions. This allows for a more granular classification based on the manufacturing technique and resulting appearance of the pile.