2000 (1) TMI 679 - AT - Central Excise

Summary

Issues:
Classification of goods under Central Excise Tariff sub-heading No. 3921.11 or Heading No. 94.04.

Detailed Analysis:

1. The appeal raised the issue of classifying goods manufactured by M/s. Sheela Foams under the Central Excise Tariff. The dispute was whether Polyurethane (PU) foam sheets with industrial tape should be classified under Chapter 94.04 as mattresses or under Chapter 39.21. The Commissioner initially classified the goods under Chapter 39, but the Revenue argued for classification under Chapter 94.04 due to the industrial tape affixed to the foam sheets.

2. During the hearing, the advocate for the Respondent referred to a Board's Circular clarifying the classification of PU foam sheets under Chapter 39.21. The Revenue contended that the goods were marketed and cleared as mattresses, falling under Heading No. 94.04, emphasizing the transformation of sheets into mattresses in the market.

3. The Tribunal noted that the goods were marketed as mattresses distinct from the sheets, requiring further work to be usable as mattresses. The sheets alone were not suitable for use as mattresses without additional processing to reinforce and support the edges, transforming them into mattresses classified under Heading No. 94.04.

4. The Tribunal highlighted the distinction between sheets and mattresses under the Tariff, emphasizing that the form in which goods are cleared is crucial for classification. It was established that the process of transforming sheets into mattresses did not affect the classification, citing relevant legal precedents to support the decision.

5. The Tribunal considered the Customs Cooperation Council's opinion and HSN Explanatory Notes, concluding that the goods in question were correctly classified as mattresses under Heading No. 94.04. The matter was remanded to the Asstt. Commissioner for further examination based on the observations made by the Tribunal, ensuring a comprehensive re-analysis of the classification issue.

6. Ultimately, the appeal by the Revenue was allowed by way of remand for a detailed re-examination of the classification matter, emphasizing the importance of marketability and trade parlance in determining the appropriate classification of goods under the Central Excise Tariff.