HS 520528 Measuring less than 83,33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number)

Quick Answer: Cotton yarn, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number), enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 34.1%. This classification specifically covers single, unbleached cotton yarns of fine counts, often used in high-quality textiles. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity between the US and other major markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential rates for the US, which can be as low as Free for certain trade agreement partners.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5205280000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5205280000 4.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
52052800 12% Free (14 programs) —
5205280090 — — ["kg"]
5205280020 — — ["kg"]

Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 5205.28?

Imports of Measuring less than 83,33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.

United States (HTSUS)

Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 12 other programs

European Union (TARIC)

Preferential rate data not yet available.

United Kingdom

Preferential rate data not yet available.

Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.

Data compiled by HSRates.

Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?

Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.

Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 520528 cover?

This subheading covers single, multiple (folded), or cabled cotton yarn, not put up for retail sale, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number). According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically pertains to fine cotton yarns. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this yarn based on its linear density, ensuring that only yarns finer than 120 metric count fall within this classification, distinguishing them from coarser yarns.

What falls outside HS 520528?

The following products are excluded from HS 520528: cotton yarn measuring 83.33 decitex or more (120 metric number or less), cotton yarn put up for retail sale (which falls under HS 5208 to 5212), and cotton yarn that is not single, multiple, or cabled. Additionally, yarns made from other fibers, such as synthetic or artificial fibers, or blended yarns where cotton is not the predominant component, are classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 54 or 55.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 520528?

A common error is miscalculating or misinterpreting the decitex or metric number of the yarn. Importers may incorrectly assume a yarn's fineness without proper measurement or rely on supplier information that is not precise. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Failure to accurately determine the linear density, which is the defining characteristic of this subheading, leads to misclassification.

How should importers classify products under HS 520528?

The correct procedure for classifying cotton yarn under HS 520528 involves first confirming that the yarn is 100% cotton and not put up for retail sale. Subsequently, the linear density of the yarn must be accurately determined. If the yarn measures less than 83.33 decitex (equivalent to exceeding 120 metric number), it correctly falls into this subheading. Importers and customs brokers should consult the yarn's technical specifications or conduct laboratory testing if necessary.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520528?

A shipment of 100 kg of fine combed cotton sewing thread, measuring 30 decitex (approximately 33 metric number), declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 150% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 1.50 = $750 USD). This example uses a hypothetical high duty rate for illustrative purposes, as actual rates vary. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provides the definitive duty rates.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520528?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520528, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide a duty-free rate for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for eligible goods from certain developing countries, such as Bangladesh. To claim these preferences, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, as required by the respective agreement and jurisdiction, must be provided.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 520527 HS 520524 HS 520526 HS 520523 HS 520548 HS 520522

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duties for HS code 520528, and how do preferential rates apply?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 520528, which covers cotton yarn (not put up for retail sale) of multiple threads, measuring less than 83.33 decitex (exceeding 120 metric number) and containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, is 3.4% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from certain countries under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and the United States (US) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). It is crucial to verify the specific origin of the goods and confirm eligibility for preferential treatment by presenting the required proof of origin documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, as stipulated by the respective trade agreement.

What specific criteria define cotton yarn for HS code 520528?

HS code 520528 specifically classifies single, unbleached cotton yarn (not put up for retail sale) that is composed of 85% or more by weight of cotton. The critical defining characteristic for this subheading is its linear density: it must measure less than 83.33 decitex. This decitex measurement is equivalent to exceeding 120 metric number (where metric number is calculated as the length in meters of 1 gram of yarn). Yarn that does not meet these specific decitex and cotton content requirements would be classified under a different HS code.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 520528?

For importing goods classified under HS code 520528, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates under applicable Free Trade Agreements, a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporting country's competent authority or a declaration of origin from the exporter, depending on the specific FTA requirements, is essential. Importers should also be prepared to provide evidence of the cotton content and linear density of the yarn, such as a laboratory test report or manufacturer's declaration, if requested by customs authorities to verify classification.

How is the import duty for HS code 520528 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The import duty for HS code 520528 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. Using the MFN rate of 3.4% as an example: If you import 1,000 kilograms of cotton yarn classified under 520528, and the declared customs value is $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be as follows: Duty = Declared Value × Duty Rate. Duty = $5,000 USD × 3.4% = $170 USD. Therefore, the import duty would be $170 USD. If a preferential rate applies, such as 0.00% from a country with an FTA, the duty payable would be $0.

Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520528?

Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry (0.00%), for goods classified under HS code 520528. Notable agreements include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), although specific product rules of origin must be met. Other significant agreements offering preferential treatment include those with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Importers must consult the specific text of each relevant trade agreement and ensure compliance with all rules of origin and documentation requirements to benefit from these reduced or eliminated duties.