9802.00.80 - Articles, except goods of heading 9802.00.91 and goods imported under provisions of subchapter XIX of this chapter and goods imported under provisions of subchapter XX, assembled abroad in whole or in part of fabricated components, the product of the United States, which (a) were exported in condition ready for assembly without further fabrication, (b) have not lost their physical identity in such articles by change in form, shape or otherwise, and (c) have not been advanced in value or improved in condition abroad except by being assembled and except by operations incidental to the assembly process such as cleaning, lubricating and painting

This HTS category, 9802.00.80, covers articles assembled abroad from American-made fabricated components. To qualify for this provision, these components must have been exported from the United States in a condition ready for assembly without further fabrication. Crucially, the components must not have lost their original physical identity through significant alteration of form or shape during the assembly process. Any foreign advancements in value or condition must be limited strictly to the assembly process itself, including incidental operations such as cleaning, lubrication, and painting.

Unlike sibling categories that may cover various types of goods, Chapter 98 of the HTS is dedicated to special classification provisions. This particular heading is distinct from other provisions within Chapter 98 that might address different types of goods or specific trade agreements, focusing specifically on the re-importation of U.S.-origin fabricated components that have undergone assembly abroad. It is also distinct from general tariff provisions for finished goods, as it facilitates the re-entry of goods that retain a substantial U.S. origin.

Subcategories within 9802.00.80 exist to differentiate based on specific eligibility criteria and compliance requirements. These subdivisions often relate to particular trade programs, bilateral agreements, or specific U.S. notes that dictate the precise conditions under which duty-free treatment or other preferential entry may be granted. For instance, some subcategories are dedicated to articles eligible under textile agreements or specific U.S. notes that outline particular conditions for duty-free entry, while others serve as a residual category for "Other" eligible articles.