HS 520941 Of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics of different colors imported under HS 520941 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US with varying rates including 20.9% and 3% under MFN, with some preferential rates being free. This code specifically covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², and made from yarns of different colours. Importers should verify specific MFN and preferential duty rates for the US, as well as potential anti-dumping or countervailing duties. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure accurate duty payments and compliance across these major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5209410000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5209410000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5209416040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 520941 | — | — | — |
| 5209413000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["m²","kg"] |
| 52094160 | 7.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5209416020 | — | — | ["m²","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 5209.41?
Imports of Of yarns of different colours 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, GSP, and 14 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 520941 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², and of yarns of different colours. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification specifically applies to fabrics where the yarns used in their construction are dyed or otherwise coloured prior to weaving, resulting in a fabric with a pattern or design created by the combination of these differently coloured yarns. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing the "different colours" aspect of the constituent yarns.
What falls outside HS 520941?
The following products are excluded from HS 520941: woven fabrics of cotton where the yarns are not of different colours (e.g., plain dyed fabrics woven from yarns of the same colour), fabrics made from cotton blends where cotton is less than 85% by weight, fabrics weighing 200 g/m² or less, and fabrics that are printed after weaving rather than constructed from yarns of different colours. For instance, a plain white cotton sheeting fabric or a printed floral cotton poplin would be classified elsewhere, typically under HS 5208 or 5211 depending on weight and cotton content.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520941?
A common error is misinterpreting "yarns of different colours" to include fabrics that are printed after weaving. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the essential character of the good. For HS 520941, the essential character is derived from the construction using pre-coloured yarns, not post-weaving coloration. Another mistake is overlooking the weight requirement of "exceeding 200 g/m²," which is a critical determinant for classification under Heading 5209 versus Heading 5208.
How should importers classify products under HS 520941?
The correct procedure for classifying woven cotton fabrics under HS 520941 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the fabric contains 85% or more cotton by weight. Secondly, they must determine the fabric's weight, ensuring it exceeds 200 g/m². Finally, and crucially, they must ascertain that the yarns used in the warp and weft are of different colours, as opposed to the fabric being dyed or printed after weaving. Reviewing the manufacturer's specifications and fabric samples is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520941?
A 100% cotton jacquard fabric, weighing 250 g/m², with yarns of different colours, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty. For example, if the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 8.5% ad valorem, the duty would be $425.00 USD (8.5% × $5,000). This calculation is based on the ad valorem rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5209.41.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520941?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520941. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods may enter the US, Mexico, or Canada duty-free, provided a valid origin declaration is submitted. Similarly, the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) can offer preferential rates, often "Free," for originating goods from developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A, depending on the specific agreement and originating country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 520941, specifically for 'Woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, of yarns of different colours'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 520941 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the rate is Free. Under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement, the rate is also Free. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of their importing country and any applicable trade agreements to determine the exact duty rate. For instance, the EU TARIC system may show different rates depending on the origin of the goods and specific trade arrangements.
How is the classification of HS code 520941 determined? What are the key criteria for 'yarns of different colours'?
HS code 520941 applies to woven fabrics of cotton that contain 85% or more by weight of cotton. The critical distinguishing factor for this specific subheading is that the fabric is made from yarns of different colours. This means the fabric's coloration is achieved by using yarns that are already dyed or colored before weaving, resulting in a pattern or design created by the juxtaposition of these different colored yarns. This is distinct from fabrics that are piece-dyed (dyed after weaving) or printed.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS 520941?
Standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For HS 520941, it is crucial to have documentation that clearly indicates the composition of the fabric (at least 85% cotton) and, importantly, that the coloration is achieved through the use of yarns of different colors. A manufacturer's certificate of origin or declaration may be necessary to substantiate claims for preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Customs authorities may also request fabric swatches or technical specifications to verify classification.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520941, and how do they impact the import cost?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS 520941. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), and others listed under the 'Free' column (e.g., D for Dominican Republic-Central America FTA, E for US-Singapore FTA, IL for US-Israel FTA, etc.). The EU has its own preferential agreements, and the UK has the UK Global Tariff which includes preferential rates. These agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties, lowering the overall cost of goods. For instance, if a fabric originating from a country with an FTA with the US is imported, and the duty under MFN is 8.00%, the importer would pay 0% duty, saving 8.00% on the value of the goods.
Can you provide a concrete example of how import duty is calculated for HS 520941?
Certainly. Let's assume a U.S. importer brings in 1,000 kilograms of fabric classified under HS 520941, with an invoice value of $5,000 USD. The standard MFN duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem. The duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. Duty = $5,000 USD × 8.00% = $400 USD. If the fabric qualified for preferential treatment under a Free Trade Agreement, the duty would be $5,000 USD × 0% = $0 USD. It's important to note that some countries might also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity in addition to, or instead of, ad valorem duties, depending on the specific tariff schedule.