HS 500790 Other fabrics

Import duty rates for HS code 500790, which covers 'Other fabrics of silk or of animal hair', vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.00% ad valorem. The UK's standard rate is 6.90% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may also show specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment. For preferential rates, countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), and the European Union (EU) may offer duty-free entry under specific trade agreements, often indicated by codes such as (A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG) in tariff schedules, signifying eligibility for preferential treatment.

The duty for HS code 500790 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of 'other silk fabrics' valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 6.00%, the calculated duty would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.06 (6.00% Rate) = $600.00 (Duty Amount). Always ensure you are using the correct customs value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight (CIF) up to the point of importation.

HS code 500790 applies to woven fabrics of silk or of animal hair that are not specifically classified elsewhere within Chapter 50 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes fabrics where silk or animal hair (such as cashmere, angora, or fine animal hair) is the predominant component by weight, and the fabric's construction or specific composition does not align with more specific subheadings. For example, plain weave silk fabrics of a certain weight might fall under a more specific code, whereas a complex brocade or a blend where silk or animal hair is dominant but the weave is unusual would likely be classified here. Verification often requires examining the fabric's composition, weave, weight, and intended use against the descriptive notes of the relevant HS chapter and headings.

For importing fabrics under HS code 500790, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description of goods, quantity, unit price, total value, and currency; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the contract of carriage. Depending on the country of import and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). For silk and animal hair products, some countries may also require specific declarations regarding the origin of the animal hair or the type of silk used, to comply with regulations concerning endangered species or ethical sourcing.

Several trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 500790. For instance, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR), which may offer reduced or zero duties on eligible silk or animal hair fabrics if they meet the rules of origin. The UK's trade arrangements post-Brexit, including its Generalized Tariff Preference (GTP) scheme and specific trade deals, will affect imports. The EU's extensive network of FTAs with countries such as Canada (CETA), Japan (JEFTA), and various Mediterranean nations also provides preferential access. Importers must verify the specific terms of the relevant FTA, including rules of origin and required documentation (like a certificate of origin), to benefit from reduced duty rates.