Notice of Issuance of Final Determination Concerning Certain Oral Solution Products, 15024-15026 [2015-06434]

Download as PDF mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES 15024 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 54 / Friday, March 20, 2015 / Notices are submitted will be summarized and included in the CBP request for OMB approval. All comments will become a matter of public record. In this document, CBP is soliciting comments concerning the following information collection: Title: Small Vessel Reporting System. OMB Number: 1651–0137. Abstract: The Small Vessel Reporting System (SVRS) is a pilot program that allows certain participants using small pleasure boats to report their arrival telephonically instead of having to appear in person for inspection by a CBP officer each time they enter the United States. In some cases, a participant may also be asked to report to CBP for an in person inspection upon arrival. Participants may be U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents of Canada who are nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries listed in 8 CFR 217.2(a). In addition, participants of one or more Trusted Traveler programs and current Canadian Border Boater Landing Permit (CBP Form I–68) holders may participate in SVRS. In order to register for the SVRS pilot program, participants enter data via the SVRS Web site, which collects information such as biographical information and vessel information. Participants will go through the in person CBP inspection process during SVRS registration, and in some cases, upon arrival in the United States. For each voyage, SVRS participants will be required to submit a float plan about their voyage via the SVRS Web site in advance of arrival in the United States. The float plan includes vessel information, a listing of all persons on board, estimated dates and times of departure and return, and information on the locations to be visited on the trip. Participants in SVRS can create a float plan for an individual voyage or a template for a float plan that can be used multiple times. SVRS is authorized by 8 U.S.C. 1225, 8 CFR 235.1, 19 U.S.C. 1433, and 19 CFR 4.2. The SVRS Web site is accessible at: https://svrs.cbp.dhs.gov/. Current Actions: CBP proposes to extend the expiration date of this information collection with a change to the burden hours resulting from updated estimates of the number of respondents. There is no change to the information being collected. Type of Review: Extension (with change). Affected Public: Individuals. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:14 Mar 19, 2015 Jkt 235001 SVRS Application U.S. Customs and Border Protection Regulations (19 CFR part 177, subpart B), CBP issued a final determination concerning the country of origin of certain oral solution products known as Prepopik, which may be offered to the U.S. Government, Department of Veterans Affairs under its Federal Supply Schedule contract. This final determination, HQ H253443, was issued under procedures set forth at 19 CFR part 177, subpart B, which implements Title III of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2511–18). In the final determination, CBP concluded that the processing in China results in a substantial transformation. Therefore, the country of origin of the oral solution is China for purposes of U.S. Government procurement. Section 177.29, CBP Regulations (19 CFR 177.29), provides that a notice of final determination shall be published in the Federal Register within 60 days of the date the final determination is issued. Section 177.30, CBP Regulations (19 CFR 177.30), provides that any party-at-interest, as defined in 19 CFR 177.22(d), may seek judicial review of a final determination within 30 days of publication of such determination in the Federal Register. Notice of Issuance of Final Determination Concerning Certain Oral Solution Products Dated: March 13, 2015. Glen E. Vereb, Acting Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade. Estimated Number of Respondents: 7,509. Estimated Number of Total Annual Responses: 7,509. Estimated Time per Response: 15 minutes. Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: 1,877. Float Plan Estimated Number of Respondents: 2,589. Estimated Number of Total Annual Responses: 2,589. Estimated Time per Response: 10.6 minutes. Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: 457. Dated: March 11, 2015. Tracey Denning, Agency Clearance Officer, U.S. Customs and Border Protection. [FR Doc. 2015–06374 Filed 3–19–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9111–14–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security. ACTION: Notice of final determination. AGENCY: This document provides notice that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (‘‘CBP’’) has issued a final determination concerning the country of origin of certain oral solution products for cleansing of the colon known as Prepopik. Based upon the facts presented, CBP has concluded that, the country of origin of the oral solution is China for purposes of U.S. Government procurement. DATES: The final determination was issued on March 13, 2015. A copy of the final determination is attached. Any party-at-interest, as defined in 19 CFR 177.22(d), may seek judicial review of this final determination within April 20, 2015. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Grace A. Kim, Valuation and Special Programs Branch, Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade (202) 325–7941. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that on March 13, 2015, pursuant to subpart B of Part 177, U.S. Customs and Border Protection SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00120 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 HQ H253443 March 13, 2015 OT:RR:CTF:VS H253443 GaK CATEGORY: Origin Michael T. Shor Arnold & Porter LLP 555 12th Street, NW Washington, DC 20004–1206 RE: U.S. Government Procurement; Country of Origin of PREPOPIK®; Substantial Transformation Dear Mr. Shor: This is in response to your letter dated April 23, 2014, and your supplemental submission dated July 18, 2014, requesting a final determination on behalf of your client, Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. (‘‘Ferring’’), pursuant to subpart B of part 177 of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (‘‘CBP’’) Regulations (19 CFR part 177). Under these regulations, which implement Title III of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (‘‘TAA’’), as amended (19 U.S.C. § 2511 et seq.), CBP issues country of origin advisory rulings and final determinations as to whether an article is or would be a product of a designated country or instrumentality for the purposes of granting waivers of certain ‘‘Buy American’’ restrictions in U.S. law or practice for products offered for sale to the U.S. Government. This final determination concerns the country of origin of Ferring’s PREPOPIK® for E:\FR\FM\20MRN1.SGM 20MRN1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 54 / Friday, March 20, 2015 / Notices Oral Solution (‘‘Prepopik’’), which is a powder for oral solution for cleansing of the colon. We note that as a U.S. importer, Ferring is a party-at-interest within the meaning of 19 CFR § 177.22(d)(1) and is entitled to request this final determination. Pursuant to 19 CFR § 177.22(b)(7), you requested confidential treatment with respect to certain information submitted. As that information constitutes privileged or confidential matters, it has been bracketed and will be redacted from any published versions. FACTS: Prepopik is a dual-acting osmotic and stimulant laxative bowel preparation for a colonoscopy in adults. Prepopik is imported in packets containing one dose, to which a dosing cup is added in the U.S. Prepopik is ingested by dissolving the powder in water, using the supplied plastic dosing cup. To produce Prepopik, sodium picosulfate (manufactured in Country A [******]), magnesium oxide (manufactured in Country B [******]), anhydrous citric acid (manufactured in Country C [******]), and three inactive ingredients (sourced from Country C and Country D [******]) are sent to China in powder form or in fine particles. The manufacturing process, described in detail to CBP, consists of sieving, wet mixing the sodium picosulfate to form granules, mixing magnesium oxide and citric acid into a granule formulation, product flavoring, and final blending which is stated not to result in a chemical reaction during any of the steps carried out in China. The final product is placed into single dosage packets. Each Prepopik packet contains 10mg sodium picosulfate, 3.5g magnesium oxide, and 12g citric acid. The packets are sent to a third party in the U.S. to be packaged into childresistant pouches along with the pre-marked, plastic dosing cup. After importation, once water is added, the magnesium oxide and citric acid combine to form magnesium citrate. The magnesium citrate, is an osmotic laxative that stimulates the absorption of water into the bowel, while the sodium picosulfate stimulates peristalsis in the bowel to expel its contents.1 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES ISSUE: What is the country of origin of the Prepopik for purposes of U.S. government procurement and marking? LAW AND ANALYSIS: Country of Origin Pursuant to Subpart B of Part 177, 19 CFR 177.21 et seq., which implements Title III of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended (19 U.S.C. § 2511 et seq.), CBP issues country of origin advisory rulings and final determinations as to whether an article is or would be a product of a designated country or instrumentality for the purposes of granting waivers of certain ‘‘Buy American’’ restrictions in U.S. law or practice for products offered for sale to the U.S. Government. 1 See https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/ article/002282.htm; see also https:// www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/ a613020.html. VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:14 Mar 19, 2015 Jkt 235001 Under the rule of origin set forth under 19 U.S.C. § 2518(4)(B): An article is a product of a country or instrumentality only if (i) it is wholly the growth, product, or manufacture of that country or instrumentality, or (ii) in the case of an article which consists in whole or in part of materials from another country or instrumentality, it has been substantially transformed into a new and different article of commerce with a name, character, or use distinct from that of the article or articles from which it was so transformed. See also 19 CFR 177.22(a). In determining whether a substantial transformation occurs in the manufacture of chemical products such as pharmaceuticals, CBP has consistently examined the complexity of the processing, and whether the final article retains the essential identity and character of the raw materials. To that end, CBP has generally held that the processing of pharmaceutical products from bulk form into measured doses, filtering and packaging does not result in a substantial transformation. See Headquarters Rulings Letter (‘‘HQ’’) H197582, dated August 9, 2012; HQ H561975, dated April 3, 2002; and HQ H561544, dated May 1, 2000. In HQ H215656, dated January 11, 2013, a pain reliever medicine called Rybix ODT was imported from France. The active pharmaceutical ingredient (‘‘API’’) was manufactured in India, which was shipped to France and processed in four stages. In the first stage, the API was de-lumped and granulated with a suspension of inactive ingredients then sieved and sized. In the second stage, several inactive ingredients designed to assist in drug administration were added to the API to make a flavor preblend. In the third stage, the tablets were formed and collected in polyethylene-lined foil bags. In the last stage, the tablets were packaged in child-resistant blister packs and prepared for shipment to the U.S. CBP found that the imported good did not undergo a substantial transformation in France, because the processing in France did not result in a change in the medicinal use of the product and the API retained its chemical and physical properties. However, in HQ 563207, dated June 1, 2005, Actoplus MetTM was produced in Japan by combining two APIs: pioglitazone HCl (pioglitazone), an insulin sensitizer metformin, a biguanide used to decrease the amount of glucose produced by the liver and make muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin so glucose can be absorbed. The two APIs were mixed together to form a fix combination drug. The decision noted that with the combination of the two APIs, type 2 diabetes patients will receive more medical benefits than taking metformin alone. CBP held that the finished pharmaceutical, Actoplus MetTM had a new name, character and use distinct from the two APIs used in the production of the finished product. It was noted that while pioglitazone and metformin could be prescribed separately, the final product, Actoplus MetTM, increased the individual effectiveness of pioglitazone and metformin in treating type 2 diabetes patients. Therefore, a substantial transformation was found to take place in PO 00000 Frm 00121 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 15025 Japan where the two APIs were combined to produce Actoplus MetTM. Ferring states that as imported, the only API present in Prepopik is the sodium picosulfate which retains its chemical and physical properties and is merely put into a dosage form and packaged. Ferring further contends that the processing in China does not result in a change in the medicinal use of the finished product. However, we note that magnesium oxide may be used for different reasons, as an antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, or acid indigestion; or as a laxative for short-term, rapid emptying of the bowel. See https:// www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/ meds/a601074.html; see also https:// pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/ magnesium_oxide (Magnesium oxide (MgO) is an inorganic compound that occurs in nature as the mineral periclase and in aqueous media combines quickly with water to form magnesium hydroxide. It is used as an antacid and mild laxative and has many nonmedicinal uses). We note that combining magnesium oxide with water results in magnesium hydroxide which is also known for its laxative effect. While the combination with water by the user may cause the ‘‘chemical reaction,’’ we note that most medicines are taken with water, so we do not find that the addition of water in this case is what makes the magnesium oxide to function as a laxative. The combination of the magnesium oxide, citric acid and water may form the osmotic effect; however, the fundamental laxative property is already found in the magnesium oxide. Accordingly, we find that as in HQ 563207, the two ingredients (sodium picosulfate and magnesium oxide) contribute to the purpose of Prepopik. As the two ingredients are combined in China, we find that as in HQ 563207 a substantial transformation occurs in China. Individually, the sodium picosulfate and the magnesium oxide may be used to alleviate constipation, and together, when combined to form Prepopik, these ingredients have a more stiumlative effect. Therefore, we find that the country of origin of Prepopik is China. Marking Section 304 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. § 1304), provides that, unless excepted, every article of foreign origin (or its container) imported into the United States shall be marked in a conspicuous place as legibly, indelibly and permanently as the nature of the article (or its container) will permit, in such a manner as to indicate to the ultimate purchaser in the United States the English name of the country of origin of the article. Congressional intent in enacting 19 U.S.C. § 1304 was ‘‘that the ultimate purchaser should be able to know by an inspection of the marking on the imported goods the country of which the goods is the product. The evident purpose is to mark the goods so that at the time of purchase the ultimate purchaser may, by knowing where the goods were produced, be able to buy or refuse to buy them, if such marking should influence his will.’’ United States v. Friedlaender & Co., 27 CCPA 297, 302, C.A.D. 104 (1940). Part 134, CBP E:\FR\FM\20MRN1.SGM 20MRN1 15026 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 54 / Friday, March 20, 2015 / Notices Regulations (19 CFR § 134) implements the country of origin marking requirements and exceptions of 19 U.S.C. § 1304. Section 134.1(b), CBP Regulations (19 CFR § 134.1(b)), defines ‘‘country of origin’’ as: the country of manufacture, production or growth of any article of foreign origin entering the United States. Further work or material added to an article in another country must effect a substantial transformation in order to render such other country the ‘‘country of origin’’ within the meaning of this part; . . . The country of origin of an article for U.S. tariff purposes is the country in which the last substantial transformation took place. A substantial transformation occurs when an article is used in a manufacturing process or operation that results in a new article that has a new name, character or use different from that of the original imported article. A substantial transformation will not result from a minor manufacturing or combining process that leaves the identity of the article intact. See United States v. Gibson-Thomsen Co., 27 C.C.P.A. 267 (1940); and National Hand Tool Corp. v. United States, 989 F.2d 1201 (Fed. Cir. 1992). In the instant case, Ferring mixes all the ingredients by blending, sieving, and mixing. We find that this processing results in a substantial transformation. The combination of the two ingredients results in a more stimulative laxative effect for purposes of cleansing the bowels. Therefore, we find that the country of origin of Prepopik is China for country of origin marking purposes. HOLDING: Based on the facts in this case, we find that the imported Prepopik is substantially transformed in China. The country of origin for government procurement and marking purposes is China. Notice of this final determination will be given in the Federal Register, as required by 19 CFR § 177.29. Any party-at-interest other than the party which requested this final determination may request, pursuant to 19 CFR § 177.31, that CBP reexamine the matter anew and issue a new final determination. Pursuant to 19 CFR § 177.30, any party-atinterest may, within 30 days of publication of the Federal Register Notice referenced above, seek judicial review of this final determination before the Court of International Trade. Sincerely, Glen E. Vereb, Acting Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade. [FR Doc. 2015–06434 Filed 3–19–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9111–14–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Customs and Border Protection Accreditation and Approval of Amspec Services, LLC, as a Commercial Gauger and Laboratory U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security. ACTION: Notice of accreditation and approval of AmSpec Services, LLC, as a commercial gauger and laboratory. AGENCY: Notice is hereby given, pursuant to CBP regulations, that AmSpec Services, LLC, has been approved to gauge petroleum and certain petroleum products and accredited to test petroleum and certain petroleum products for customs purposes for the next three years as of October 27, 2014. DATES: Effective Dates: The accreditation and approval of AmSpec Services, LLC, as commercial gauger and laboratory became effective on October 27, 2014. The next triennial inspection date will be scheduled for October 2017. SUMMARY: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Approved Gauger and Accredited Laboratories Manager, Laboratories and Scientific Services Directorate, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Suite 1500N, Washington, DC 20229, tel. 202– 344–1060. Notice is hereby given pursuant to 19 CFR 151.12 and 19 CFR 151.13, that AmSpec Services, LLC, 4075 Sprig Driver, Suite A, Concord, CA 94520, has been approved to gauge petroleum and certain petroleum products and accredited to test petroleum and certain petroleum products for customs purposes, in accordance with the provisions of 19 CFR 151.12 and 19 CFR 151.13. AmSpec Services, LLC is approved for the following gauging procedures for petroleum and certain petroleum products from the American Petroleum Institute (API): SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: API Chapters 1 .............. 3 .............. 7 .............. 8 .............. 11 ............ 12 ............ 17 ............ Title Vocabulary. Tank gauging. Temperature determination. Sampling. Physical Properties. Calculations. Maritime measurement. AmSpec Services, LLC is accredited for the following laboratory analysis procedures and methods for petroleum and certain petroleum products set forth by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Laboratory Methods (CBPL) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM): ASTM Title 27–13 .............................................. ASTM D–4294 ............................... 27–06 .............................................. ASTM D–473 ................................. 27–01 .............................................. ASTM D–287 ................................. 27–46 .............................................. ASTM D–5002 ............................... 27–05 .............................................. ASTM D–4928 ............................... 27–48 .............................................. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES CBPL No. D–4052 .......................................... Standard test method for sulfur in petroleum and petroleum products by energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Standard test method for sediment in crude oils and fuel oils by the extraction method. Standard test method for API gravity of crude petroleum and petroleum products (hydrometer method). Standard test method for density and relative density of crude oils by digital density analyzer. Standard test method for water in crude oils by Coulometric Karl Fischer Titration. Density and Relative density of liquids by digital density meter. Anyone wishing to employ this entity to conduct laboratory analyses and gauger services should request and receive written assurances from the entity that it is accredited or approved by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to conduct the specific test or gauger service requested. Alternatively, VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:14 Mar 19, 2015 Jkt 235001 inquiries regarding the specific test or gauger service this entity is accredited or approved to perform may be directed to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection by calling (202) 344–1060. The inquiry may also be sent to CBPGaugersLabs@dhs.gov. Please reference the Web site listed below for PO 00000 Frm 00122 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 a complete listing of CBP approved gaugers and accredited laboratories. https://www.cbp.gov/about/labsscientific/commercial-gaugers-andlaboratories E:\FR\FM\20MRN1.SGM 20MRN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 54 (Friday, March 20, 2015)]
[Notices]
[Pages 15024-15026]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-06434]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

U.S. Customs and Border Protection


Notice of Issuance of Final Determination Concerning Certain Oral 
Solution Products

AGENCY: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland 
Security.

ACTION: Notice of final determination.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This document provides notice that U.S. Customs and Border 
Protection (``CBP'') has issued a final determination concerning the 
country of origin of certain oral solution products for cleansing of 
the colon known as Prepopik. Based upon the facts presented, CBP has 
concluded that, the country of origin of the oral solution is China for 
purposes of U.S. Government procurement.

DATES: The final determination was issued on March 13, 2015. A copy of 
the final determination is attached. Any party-at-interest, as defined 
in 19 CFR 177.22(d), may seek judicial review of this final 
determination within April 20, 2015.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Grace A. Kim, Valuation and Special 
Programs Branch, Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade 
(202) 325-7941.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that on March 13, 
2015, pursuant to subpart B of Part 177, U.S. Customs and Border 
Protection Regulations (19 CFR part 177, subpart B), CBP issued a final 
determination concerning the country of origin of certain oral solution 
products known as Prepopik, which may be offered to the U.S. 
Government, Department of Veterans Affairs under its Federal Supply 
Schedule contract. This final determination, HQ H253443, was issued 
under procedures set forth at 19 CFR part 177, subpart B, which 
implements Title III of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended 
(19 U.S.C. 2511-18). In the final determination, CBP concluded that the 
processing in China results in a substantial transformation. Therefore, 
the country of origin of the oral solution is China for purposes of 
U.S. Government procurement.
    Section 177.29, CBP Regulations (19 CFR 177.29), provides that a 
notice of final determination shall be published in the Federal 
Register within 60 days of the date the final determination is issued. 
Section 177.30, CBP Regulations (19 CFR 177.30), provides that any 
party-at-interest, as defined in 19 CFR 177.22(d), may seek judicial 
review of a final determination within 30 days of publication of such 
determination in the Federal Register.

    Dated: March 13, 2015.
Glen E. Vereb,
Acting Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings, Office of 
International Trade.

HQ H253443

March 13, 2015

OT:RR:CTF:VS H253443 GaK

CATEGORY: Origin

Michael T. Shor
Arnold & Porter LLP
555 12th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20004-1206

RE: U.S. Government Procurement; Country of Origin of PREPOPIK[supreg]; 
Substantial Transformation

Dear Mr. Shor:

    This is in response to your letter dated April 23, 2014, and 
your supplemental submission dated July 18, 2014, requesting a final 
determination on behalf of your client, Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc. 
(``Ferring''), pursuant to subpart B of part 177 of the U.S. Customs 
and Border Protection (``CBP'') Regulations (19 CFR part 177). Under 
these regulations, which implement Title III of the Trade Agreements 
Act of 1979 (``TAA''), as amended (19 U.S.C. Sec.  2511 et seq.), 
CBP issues country of origin advisory rulings and final 
determinations as to whether an article is or would be a product of 
a designated country or instrumentality for the purposes of granting 
waivers of certain ``Buy American'' restrictions in U.S. law or 
practice for products offered for sale to the U.S. Government.
    This final determination concerns the country of origin of 
Ferring's PREPOPIK[supreg] for

[[Page 15025]]

Oral Solution (``Prepopik''), which is a powder for oral solution 
for cleansing of the colon. We note that as a U.S. importer, Ferring 
is a party-at-interest within the meaning of 19 CFR Sec.  
177.22(d)(1) and is entitled to request this final determination.
    Pursuant to 19 CFR Sec.  177.22(b)(7), you requested 
confidential treatment with respect to certain information 
submitted. As that information constitutes privileged or 
confidential matters, it has been bracketed and will be redacted 
from any published versions.

FACTS:

    Prepopik is a dual-acting osmotic and stimulant laxative bowel 
preparation for a colonoscopy in adults. Prepopik is imported in 
packets containing one dose, to which a dosing cup is added in the 
U.S. Prepopik is ingested by dissolving the powder in water, using 
the supplied plastic dosing cup. To produce Prepopik, sodium 
picosulfate (manufactured in Country A [******]), magnesium oxide 
(manufactured in Country B [******]), anhydrous citric acid 
(manufactured in Country C [******]), and three inactive ingredients 
(sourced from Country C and Country D [******]) are sent to China in 
powder form or in fine particles. The manufacturing process, 
described in detail to CBP, consists of sieving, wet mixing the 
sodium picosulfate to form granules, mixing magnesium oxide and 
citric acid into a granule formulation, product flavoring, and final 
blending which is stated not to result in a chemical reaction during 
any of the steps carried out in China. The final product is placed 
into single dosage packets. Each Prepopik packet contains 10mg 
sodium picosulfate, 3.5g magnesium oxide, and 12g citric acid. The 
packets are sent to a third party in the U.S. to be packaged into 
child-resistant pouches along with the pre-marked, plastic dosing 
cup.
    After importation, once water is added, the magnesium oxide and 
citric acid combine to form magnesium citrate. The magnesium 
citrate, is an osmotic laxative that stimulates the absorption of 
water into the bowel, while the sodium picosulfate stimulates 
peristalsis in the bowel to expel its contents.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ See https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002282.htm; see also https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a613020.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

ISSUE:

    What is the country of origin of the Prepopik for purposes of 
U.S. government procurement and marking?

LAW AND ANALYSIS:

Country of Origin

    Pursuant to Subpart B of Part 177, 19 CFR 177.21 et seq., which 
implements Title III of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended 
(19 U.S.C. Sec.  2511 et seq.), CBP issues country of origin 
advisory rulings and final determinations as to whether an article 
is or would be a product of a designated country or instrumentality 
for the purposes of granting waivers of certain ``Buy American'' 
restrictions in U.S. law or practice for products offered for sale 
to the U.S. Government.
    Under the rule of origin set forth under 19 U.S.C. Sec.  
2518(4)(B):
    An article is a product of a country or instrumentality only if 
(i) it is wholly the growth, product, or manufacture of that country 
or instrumentality, or (ii) in the case of an article which consists 
in whole or in part of materials from another country or 
instrumentality, it has been substantially transformed into a new 
and different article of commerce with a name, character, or use 
distinct from that of the article or articles from which it was so 
transformed.
    See also 19 CFR 177.22(a).
    In determining whether a substantial transformation occurs in 
the manufacture of chemical products such as pharmaceuticals, CBP 
has consistently examined the complexity of the processing, and 
whether the final article retains the essential identity and 
character of the raw materials. To that end, CBP has generally held 
that the processing of pharmaceutical products from bulk form into 
measured doses, filtering and packaging does not result in a 
substantial transformation. See Headquarters Rulings Letter (``HQ'') 
H197582, dated August 9, 2012; HQ H561975, dated April 3, 2002; and 
HQ H561544, dated May 1, 2000.
    In HQ H215656, dated January 11, 2013, a pain reliever medicine 
called Rybix ODT was imported from France. The active pharmaceutical 
ingredient (``API'') was manufactured in India, which was shipped to 
France and processed in four stages. In the first stage, the API was 
de-lumped and granulated with a suspension of inactive ingredients 
then sieved and sized. In the second stage, several inactive 
ingredients designed to assist in drug administration were added to 
the API to make a flavor preblend. In the third stage, the tablets 
were formed and collected in polyethylene-lined foil bags. In the 
last stage, the tablets were packaged in child-resistant blister 
packs and prepared for shipment to the U.S. CBP found that the 
imported good did not undergo a substantial transformation in 
France, because the processing in France did not result in a change 
in the medicinal use of the product and the API retained its 
chemical and physical properties.
    However, in HQ 563207, dated June 1, 2005, Actoplus 
MetTM was produced in Japan by combining two APIs: 
pioglitazone HCl (pioglitazone), an insulin sensitizer metformin, a 
biguanide used to decrease the amount of glucose produced by the 
liver and make muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin so glucose 
can be absorbed. The two APIs were mixed together to form a fix 
combination drug. The decision noted that with the combination of 
the two APIs, type 2 diabetes patients will receive more medical 
benefits than taking metformin alone. CBP held that the finished 
pharmaceutical, Actoplus MetTM had a new name, character 
and use distinct from the two APIs used in the production of the 
finished product. It was noted that while pioglitazone and metformin 
could be prescribed separately, the final product, Actoplus 
MetTM, increased the individual effectiveness of 
pioglitazone and metformin in treating type 2 diabetes patients. 
Therefore, a substantial transformation was found to take place in 
Japan where the two APIs were combined to produce Actoplus 
MetTM.
    Ferring states that as imported, the only API present in 
Prepopik is the sodium picosulfate which retains its chemical and 
physical properties and is merely put into a dosage form and 
packaged. Ferring further contends that the processing in China does 
not result in a change in the medicinal use of the finished product. 
However, we note that magnesium oxide may be used for different 
reasons, as an antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, or acid 
indigestion; or as a laxative for short-term, rapid emptying of the 
bowel. See https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a601074.html; see also https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/magnesium_oxide (Magnesium oxide (MgO) is an inorganic compound that 
occurs in nature as the mineral periclase and in aqueous media 
combines quickly with water to form magnesium hydroxide. It is used 
as an antacid and mild laxative and has many nonmedicinal uses). We 
note that combining magnesium oxide with water results in magnesium 
hydroxide which is also known for its laxative effect. While the 
combination with water by the user may cause the ``chemical 
reaction,'' we note that most medicines are taken with water, so we 
do not find that the addition of water in this case is what makes 
the magnesium oxide to function as a laxative. The combination of 
the magnesium oxide, citric acid and water may form the osmotic 
effect; however, the fundamental laxative property is already found 
in the magnesium oxide. Accordingly, we find that as in HQ 563207, 
the two ingredients (sodium picosulfate and magnesium oxide) 
contribute to the purpose of Prepopik. As the two ingredients are 
combined in China, we find that as in HQ 563207 a substantial 
transformation occurs in China. Individually, the sodium picosulfate 
and the magnesium oxide may be used to alleviate constipation, and 
together, when combined to form Prepopik, these ingredients have a 
more stiumlative effect. Therefore, we find that the country of 
origin of Prepopik is China.

Marking

    Section 304 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (19 U.S.C. 
Sec.  1304), provides that, unless excepted, every article of 
foreign origin (or its container) imported into the United States 
shall be marked in a conspicuous place as legibly, indelibly and 
permanently as the nature of the article (or its container) will 
permit, in such a manner as to indicate to the ultimate purchaser in 
the United States the English name of the country of origin of the 
article. Congressional intent in enacting 19 U.S.C. Sec.  1304 was 
``that the ultimate purchaser should be able to know by an 
inspection of the marking on the imported goods the country of which 
the goods is the product. The evident purpose is to mark the goods 
so that at the time of purchase the ultimate purchaser may, by 
knowing where the goods were produced, be able to buy or refuse to 
buy them, if such marking should influence his will.'' United States 
v. Friedlaender & Co., 27 CCPA 297, 302, C.A.D. 104 (1940). Part 
134, CBP

[[Page 15026]]

Regulations (19 CFR Sec.  134) implements the country of origin 
marking requirements and exceptions of 19 U.S.C. Sec.  1304.
    Section 134.1(b), CBP Regulations (19 CFR Sec.  134.1(b)), 
defines ``country of origin'' as:
    the country of manufacture, production or growth of any article 
of foreign origin entering the United States. Further work or 
material added to an article in another country must effect a 
substantial transformation in order to render such other country the 
``country of origin'' within the meaning of this part; . . .
    The country of origin of an article for U.S. tariff purposes is 
the country in which the last substantial transformation took place. 
A substantial transformation occurs when an article is used in a 
manufacturing process or operation that results in a new article 
that has a new name, character or use different from that of the 
original imported article. A substantial transformation will not 
result from a minor manufacturing or combining process that leaves 
the identity of the article intact. See United States v. Gibson-
Thomsen Co., 27 C.C.P.A. 267 (1940); and National Hand Tool Corp. v. 
United States, 989 F.2d 1201 (Fed. Cir. 1992).
    In the instant case, Ferring mixes all the ingredients by 
blending, sieving, and mixing. We find that this processing results 
in a substantial transformation. The combination of the two 
ingredients results in a more stimulative laxative effect for 
purposes of cleansing the bowels. Therefore, we find that the 
country of origin of Prepopik is China for country of origin marking 
purposes.

HOLDING:

    Based on the facts in this case, we find that the imported 
Prepopik is substantially transformed in China. The country of 
origin for government procurement and marking purposes is China.
    Notice of this final determination will be given in the Federal 
Register, as required by 19 CFR Sec.  177.29. Any party-at-interest 
other than the party which requested this final determination may 
request, pursuant to 19 CFR Sec.  177.31, that CBP reexamine the 
matter anew and issue a new final determination. Pursuant to 19 CFR 
Sec.  177.30, any party-at-interest may, within 30 days of 
publication of the Federal Register Notice referenced above, seek 
judicial review of this final determination before the Court of 
International Trade.

Sincerely,

Glen E. Vereb,
Acting Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings, Office of 
International Trade. 

[FR Doc. 2015-06434 Filed 3-19-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 9111-14-P
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