9902.12.98 - Acrylic fiber tow containing at least 85 percent but not more than 92 percent by weight of acrylonitrile units, containing a minimum of 35 percent by weight of water, presented in the form of raw white (undyed) filament with an average filament measure between 2 and 5 decitex per filament and an aggregate measure in the tow bundle between 660,000 and 1,200,000 decitex, with a length greater than 2 meters (provided for in subheading 5501.30.00)

This HTS category, 9902.12.98, pertains to a highly specific type of acrylic fiber tow. It is characterized by its chemical composition, containing between 85% and 92% acrylonitrile units by weight. Furthermore, it must contain a minimum of 35% water by weight and be presented as raw white (undyed) filament. Crucial physical specifications include an average filament measure between 2 and 5 decitex per filament, an aggregate measure within the tow bundle ranging from 660,000 to 1,200,000 decitex, and a length exceeding 2 meters. This classification is subject to temporary legislation and trade agreement provisions as outlined in Chapter 99.

The distinguishing factor for this category lies in its precise technical specifications, particularly the percentage of acrylonitrile, the minimum water content, and the defined decitex ranges for both individual filaments and the aggregate tow bundle. Unlike broader categories for basic synthetic fibers or yarns, this HTS code targets a specific intermediate product used in further manufacturing processes. Its sibling categories at the HTS Database Root level cover a vast array of unrelated goods, from live animals to machinery and various manufactured products, making direct comparison at this very high level impractical.

As this HTS code represents a leaf node, it has no subcategories. Classification into this specific code relies entirely on meeting all the detailed physical and compositional criteria outlined in its description. Importers must ensure meticulous adherence to these specifications to correctly classify these acrylic fiber tows, which are provided for under the more general subheading 5501.30.00. This temporary classification allows for specific trade policy applications and monitoring of this particular commodity.