9902.12.41 - Shopping bags with outer surface of spun-bonded fabric of polypropylene or nonwoven fabric of polypropylene (provided for in subheading 4202.92.31)

This HTS category, 9902.12.41, specifically addresses shopping bags. The defining characteristic for classification under this provision is that the outer surface of these bags must be constructed from either spun-bonded fabric of polypropylene or nonwoven fabric of polypropylene. It is crucial to note that these bags are "provided for" under subheading 4202.92.31 of the HTS, meaning this Chapter 99 provision acts as a temporary modification or specific rule for items that would otherwise fall under that Chapter 42 heading.

Distinguishing this category from its numerous siblings in the HTS database is fundamental. While other HTS codes may cover various types of bags or articles of textile materials, 9902.12.41 is narrowly defined by the specific material of its outer surface. For instance, siblings could encompass bags made from woven fabrics, plastic sheeting, or even leather, each falling under different HTS chapters and headings based on their construction and primary materials. This specific subheading isolates polypropylene nonwoven and spun-bonded fabric shopping bags for distinct tariff treatment.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Classification under 9902.12.41 is definitive once the material and type of product (shopping bag) are confirmed. Importers and exporters should carefully verify the material composition of the outer surface of their shopping bags to ensure accurate classification under this temporary provision, cross-referencing with the primary classification in subheading 4202.92.31 if necessary for complete understanding.