HS 520631 Multiple (folded) or cabled yarn, of uncombed fibres
Quick Answer: Cotton yarn, multiple (folded) or cabled, of uncombed fibres, imported under HS 520631 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 9.2% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically applies to cotton yarns that have been twisted together to form multiple strands or are cabled, and are derived from cotton fibres that have not undergone the combing process, resulting in a less refined yarn. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available for certain trading partners in the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5206310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5206310000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5206310000 | 9.2% | Free (14 programs) | ["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 5206.31?
Imports of Multiple (folded) or cabled yarn, of uncombed fibres 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?
What products does HS 520631 cover?
This subheading covers single yarn of cotton, not put up for retail sale, made from uncombed cotton fibres, which is either multiple (folded) or cabled. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, "multiple (folded) yarn" consists of two or more single yarns twisted together, while "cabled yarn" is formed by twisting together two or more folded yarns. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing that the yarn must be composed of uncombed cotton fibres and be in a form other than single yarn or put up for retail sale.
What falls outside HS 520631?
The following products are excluded from HS 520631: single yarns of cotton (classified under HS 520610 or 520620), yarns of combed cotton fibres (classified under HS 5205), yarns of other textile fibres, and yarns put up for retail sale (which are typically classified under HS 5210). For instance, a multiple yarn of cotton that has undergone a combing process would be classified under HS 5205, not 5206. Similarly, cotton yarn sold in small skeins for home knitting falls under different headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520631?
A common error is misinterpreting the "uncombed fibres" requirement. If the cotton fibres have been combed, the yarn would be classified under heading 5205. Another mistake involves confusing "multiple (folded) or cabled yarn" with single yarn, which is covered by other subheadings within 5206. Importers must carefully examine the manufacturing process and the final form of the yarn, adhering to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.
How should importers classify products under HS 520631?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 520631 involves a systematic approach. First, confirm that the yarn is made from cotton fibres. Second, verify that the fibres were uncombed. Third, determine if the yarn is multiple (folded) or cabled, meaning it consists of two or more single yarns twisted together. Finally, ensure the yarn is not put up for retail sale. Consulting official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and if necessary, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520631?
A 100% cotton multiple yarn, weighing 500 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 520631. Note that specific duties may also apply depending on the yarn's count.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520631?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520631, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, yarn originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a preferential rate of Free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for eligible goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 520631, 'Multiple (folded) or cabled yarn, of uncombed fibres'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 520631 is typically 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), the rate is Free. Under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KR), the rate is also Free. Importers should always verify the specific preferential rate applicable to their country of origin. Source: USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
How is the import duty for HS code 520631 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 520631 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of multiple cotton yarn valued at $10,000 is imported and subject to the MFN rate of 4.00%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.04 = $400.00. If the yarn is subject to a specific duty (e.g., per kilogram), the calculation would be rate per unit × quantity. Always consult the specific tariff schedule for the applicable duty basis.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 520631?
HS code 520631 specifically covers multiple (folded) or cabled yarn made from uncombed cotton fibres. Key criteria include: 1. Material: Must be cotton (Chapter 52). 2. Construction: The yarn must be multiple (folded) or cabled, meaning two or more single yarns are twisted together. 3. Fibre State: The cotton fibres must be uncombed (carded). If the fibres were combed, it would fall under HS code 5205. The yarn must also not be put up for retail sale. Source: WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520631, and what documentation is typically required?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 520631. Notable examples include agreements with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others, often resulting in a Free rate. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need to provide a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporting country's competent authority, or a declaration of origin on the commercial invoice, depending on the specific trade agreement's requirements. Consult the relevant trade agreement text for precise documentation needs.
Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for importing multiple (folded) or cabled cotton yarn under HS code 520631?
While HS code 520631 itself does not typically have specific import restrictions, importers must ensure compliance with general trade regulations of the importing country. This includes accurate declaration of the goods, correct HS classification, and adherence to any labeling requirements for textiles. For cotton products, particularly from certain regions, there might be phytosanitary requirements or quotas, though these are less common for processed yarn. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to consult the importing country's customs authority for any specific regulations or potential trade remedies that may apply to cotton yarn.