| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4909004000 | Doc | 30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4909002000 | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4911998000 | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 4911996000 | Doc | 37.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3926903300 | Doc | 36.5% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3923900080 | Doc | 58.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Red Envelope
A red envelope (also known as hongbao in Mandarin, lai see in Cantonese, or ang pow in Hokkien/Teochew) is a monetary gift given during special occasions, most commonly Chinese New Year, weddings, and birthdays. It is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and symbolism.
Material:
Traditionally, red envelopes are made from red paper, though modern variations can include more elaborate materials like gold foil, embossed designs, and higher quality paper stocks. The red color is considered auspicious and represents good luck, prosperity, and warding off evil spirits.
Purpose & Symbolism:
The primary purpose is to share good fortune and blessings. Giving a red envelope is believed to transfer luck from the giver to the receiver. The monetary amount within is often carefully considered, avoiding unlucky numbers (like those containing the number 4, which sounds similar to the word for death in Chinese). The act of giving and receiving is more important than the amount itself, representing goodwill and strengthening relationships.
Function:
- Good Luck & Prosperity: The most fundamental function is to bestow good luck and wealth upon the recipient.
- Social Custom: It reinforces social bonds and demonstrates respect and care.
- Blessings: Often accompanied by wishes for health, happiness, and success.
- Financial Support: Can provide a small financial gift, particularly for children or those in need.
Usage Scenarios:
- Chinese New Year: The most common occasion, given to children, unmarried adults, and employees.
- Weddings: Given by guests to the newlyweds.
- Birthdays: Particularly for elders, as a gesture of respect and wishing them longevity.
- Birth of a Child: Given to parents to celebrate the new arrival.
- Graduations: As a congratulatory gift.
- Other Celebrations: Increasingly given for other significant life events or achievements.
Common Types & Variations:
- Traditional Paper Envelopes: The most common, often with simple gold or auspicious character designs.
- Embossed Envelopes: Feature raised patterns and designs for a more luxurious feel.
- Character Envelopes: Display specific characters representing good fortune, longevity, or wealth.
- Animal Zodiac Envelopes: Feature the animal of the current year.
- Digital Red Envelopes: Increasingly popular through mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay), allowing for remote gifting.
- Wedding Red Envelopes: Often larger and more ornate than those given for other occasions.
- Regional Variations: Designs and customs can vary significantly across different regions of China and among Chinese communities worldwide.
Red envelopes, typically used for gifting money during special occasions, do not have a direct, explicit match within the provided reference material. However, based on potential composition and use, the following HS codes may be relevant:
- 4909004000: Printed or illustrated postcards; printed cards bearing personal greetings, messages or announcements, whether or not illustrated, with or without envelopes or trimmings: Other. This code could apply if the red envelope is primarily a decorative card with a printed design, functioning as a greeting or announcement carrier. The total tax rate is 30.0%.
- 4909002000: Printed or illustrated postcards; printed cards bearing personal greetings, messages or announcements, whether or not illustrated, with or without envelopes or trimmings: Postcards. If the red envelope is specifically designed as a postcard, this code may be applicable. The total tax rate is 37.5%.
- 3926903300: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Beads, bugles and spangles, not strung (except temporarily) and not set; articles thereof, not elsewhere specified or included: Handbags. If the red envelope is constructed from plastic and functions as a small container for holding money, similar to a handbag, this code might be considered. The total tax rate is 36.5%.
It is important to note that the final classification depends on the material composition, design, and primary function of the red envelope. If the red envelope is made of paper and primarily functions as a decorative carrier for money, HS codes 4909004000 or 4909002000 are more likely to be appropriate. If it is made of plastic and functions as a container, HS code 3926903300 may be more suitable.