9817.00.98.00 - Theatrical scenery, properties and apparel brought into the United States by proprietors or managers of theatrical, ballet, opera or similar productions arriving from abroad for temporary use by them in such productions

This HTS classification, 9817.00.98.00, specifically addresses theatrical scenery, properties, and apparel that are temporarily imported into the United States for use in theatrical, ballet, opera, or similar productions. The key criteria for inclusion are the origin of the items (brought from abroad) and their intended use (for temporary exhibition and performance). This designation allows for the duty-free temporary admission of these specialized items, provided they are intended to be exported after their use in the production.

Unlike the numerous sibling categories in Chapters 01 through 97, which cover a vast array of tangible goods such as live animals, agricultural products, textiles, and manufactured articles based on their physical characteristics and primary function, this category falls under Section XXII, dedicated to special provisions. These special provisions often relate to the temporary admission of goods, instruments of international traffic, or items with unique customs treatment, rather than the standard classification of merchandise for commercial sale or consumption.

As this classification is a leaf node, there are no further subdivisions. Therefore, the focus for classification under 9817.00.98.00 rests on the specific purpose and temporary nature of the imported items. Examples would include costumes designed for a specific theatrical run, stage sets constructed for a touring opera company, or props essential to a particular play, all of which are intended to leave the United States once the performance concludes.