9903.88.17 - Articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(v) to this subchapter, each covered by an exclusion granted by the U.S. Trade Representative

HTS Code 9903.88.17 represents a specific temporary classification for articles originating from China that have received an exclusion granted by the U.S. Trade Representative. This category falls under Chapter 99, which encompasses temporary legislation and modifications to import restrictions, often related to trade agreements and specific government proclamations. The defining characteristic of goods classified here is not their inherent physical nature or material composition, but rather their status as goods subject to specific exclusions from otherwise applicable trade measures.

This classification is distinct from the vast majority of other HTS codes, which are organized by product type (e.g., live animals, machinery, textiles). Unlike sibling categories that describe categories of goods based on their physical attributes and intended use, 9903.88.17 serves as a specific administrative designation. It does not represent a product category in the traditional sense, but rather a conditional status applied to certain Chinese goods that would otherwise be subject to additional tariffs or restrictions.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories. The classification of an article under 9903.88.17 is solely determined by its origin (China) and the existence of a formal exclusion granted by the U.S. Trade Representative under the specified U.S. note. Importers must ensure they have proper documentation to substantiate the eligibility of the goods for this specific classification, which bypasses other potential tariff treatments.