HS 520821 Bleached
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics of a width not exceeding 30 cm, bleached, imported under HS 520821, enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, while the US applies a range of rates, with the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate being 24.7% ad valorem, though preferential rates are available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically covers woven cotton fabrics that have undergone a bleaching process, excluding those with a width exceeding 30 cm. Importers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise rates and potential preferential treatment. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5208211000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5208219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5208210000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5208210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5208211000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5208219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5208212090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 52082140 | 10.2% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5208216020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 520821 | — | — | — |
| 52082120 | 8.4% | Free (14 programs) | — |
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 5208.21?
Imports of Bleached 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 520821 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% cotton by weight, printed, of a weight not exceeding 200 g/m², and bleached. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to cotton fabrics that have undergone a bleaching process to remove natural colorants, rendering them white or off-white, and are subsequently printed with designs or patterns. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are finished textile articles ready for further use in manufacturing or as end products, provided they meet the specified cotton content and weight criteria.
What falls outside HS 520821?
The following products are excluded from HS 520821: woven cotton fabrics that are not bleached, printed, or that exceed 200 g/m² in weight. Also excluded are fabrics containing 85% or more cotton by weight, which would fall under HS 5208.11 (unbleached) or other subheadings within 5208 depending on their finishing. Furthermore, fabrics that are dyed, or made up into articles such as garments or household linens, are classified elsewhere, often in Chapter 63, and are not covered by this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520821?
A common error is misinterpreting the "bleached" and "printed" requirements. Importers may mistakenly classify undyed or dyed fabrics under this subheading if they are also printed. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are classifiable by virtue of being composed of different materials or components, they are to be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. For HS 520821, the fabric must be both bleached and printed; if only one of these conditions is met, a different subheading will apply.
How should importers classify products under HS 520821?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 520821 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the fiber content, ensuring cotton is less than 85% by weight. Secondly, they must verify that the fabric has been bleached. Thirdly, they need to ascertain if the fabric is printed. Finally, the weight per square meter must be confirmed to be 200 g/m² or less. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520821?
A bolt of printed, bleached cotton fabric weighing 150 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,500 USD × 10% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5208.21.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520821?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520821. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), fabrics originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a preferential rate of Free. Similarly, fabrics originating from certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program may also receive a reduced or Free duty rate. To claim these preferences, importers typically need to provide a self-certified origin statement or a GSP Form A, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the primary import duty rates for HS code 520821 (cotton fabric, bleached, weighing not more than 200 g/m²)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 520821 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from certain countries under various trade agreements. 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 (Free). It is crucial to verify the specific preferential rate applicable to your country of origin and ensure you meet all documentation requirements for claiming such benefits. Always consult the latest official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff, for the most current and precise rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 520821 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 520821 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import fabric valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.08 (Duty Rate) = $800 USD. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per kilogram or per square meter) is also applicable, the total duty will be the higher of the ad valorem or specific duty, or a combination thereof, depending on the tariff's structure for that specific country. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs authority.
What specific criteria must be met for fabric to be classified under HS code 520821, and what documentation is typically required?
To be classified under HS code 520821, the fabric must meet the following criteria: 1. It must be made of cotton. 2. It must be woven. 3. It must be bleached. 4. Its weight must not exceed 200 g/m². Documentation typically required includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. For claiming preferential duty rates, a valid certificate of origin or proof of origin compliant with the specific trade agreement is essential. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or laboratory test results confirming the cotton content and weight if requested by customs.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520821, and what are the implications for importers?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 520821. Examples include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) the EU has with third countries, and bilateral agreements the UK has established post-Brexit. For instance, imports from countries like Australia, Chile, South Korea, and Singapore may benefit from duty-free entry under specific agreements. The implication for importers is a significant reduction or elimination of duties, making goods more competitive. However, importers must meticulously adhere to the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement and maintain the necessary documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin) to substantiate their claims. Failure to do so can result in the assessment of standard MFN duties, penalties, and delays.
Are there any specific considerations or potential pitfalls when importing bleached cotton fabrics under HS code 520821?
A common pitfall is misclassifying the fabric based on its exact weight or bleaching status. HS code 5208 covers woven fabrics of cotton, not exceeding 200 g/m². Subheading 5208.21 specifically applies to those that are bleached. If the fabric is dyed, printed, or has a different composition (e.g., synthetic fibers), it would fall under a different HS code. Another consideration is ensuring the correct declaration of value for ad valorem duties. Importers must accurately declare the transaction value, including any assists, royalties, or other costs that form part of the value for customs purposes. Incorrect declarations can lead to penalties and backdated duties. Always double-check the fabric's exact specifications against the tariff chapter notes and the WCO's Explanatory Notes for Chapter 52.