HS 520949 Other fabrics
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², not containing synthetic staple fibres, imported under HS 5209.49 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 8.4% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers "other fabrics" within this weight category, meaning those not already specified in preceding subheadings of 5209. Significant trade considerations include potential preferential duty rates for certain trading partners in the US. Importers and customs brokers should consult specific country tariff schedules for precise duty applications and any applicable trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5209490000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5209490000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52094900 | 8.4% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5209490020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5209490040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5209490090 | — | — | ["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 5209.49?
Imports of Other fabrics 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 520949 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², and which are not of a plain weave, and are not of a twill weave (including cross twill). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category specifically includes fabrics that are not of a simple weave, such as satin weaves, sateen weaves, or dobby weaves, and are not specifically classified elsewhere within heading 5209. These fabrics are typically used for apparel, home furnishings, and industrial applications.
What falls outside HS 520949?
The following products are excluded from HS 520949: woven fabrics of cotton containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², that are of a plain weave (classified under 5209.11) or a twill weave (including cross twill, classified under 5209.12). Additionally, fabrics made from other fibers, or those containing less than 85% cotton, are not covered. For example, printed or dyed fabrics of cotton meeting the weight and weave criteria would fall under different subheadings within 5209, such as 5209.31 or 5209.32, rather than 5209.49.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520949?
A common error is misinterpreting the weave structure of the fabric. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify fabrics with complex weaves as plain or twill weaves, or vice versa. For instance, a jacquard fabric, which has an intricate pattern woven into the cloth, would not be considered a plain or twill weave and would likely fall under 5209.49 if it meets the other criteria, whereas a simple dobby weave might also be classified here.
How should importers classify products under HS 520949?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 520949 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm the fabric is made of cotton and comprises at least 85% cotton by weight. Second, determine its weight per square meter, ensuring it exceeds 200 g/m². Third, meticulously examine the weave structure, confirming it is neither a plain weave nor a twill weave (including cross twill). Consulting technical specifications, weave diagrams, or fabric swatches is crucial. Importers and customs brokers should refer to the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, for detailed descriptions and notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520949?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of 100% cotton jacquard fabric, weighing 250 g/m², declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,000.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 20% × $5,000 USD = $1,000.00. This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 5209.49.0000, assuming no preferential trade agreements apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520949?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520949, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries, such as Bangladesh or Vietnam. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 520949, 'Other fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m²', in major markets?
Import duty rates for HS code 520949 can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 8.5% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC system often shows rates around 8.00% ad valorem for this classification. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a standard rate of 8.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change.
How is the import duty for HS code 520949 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 520949 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of 1,000 square meters of fabric valued at $5,000 (USD) is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 8.5%, the calculation would be: $5,000 (value) × 8.5% (duty rate) = $425 (duty amount). Some countries may also have specific additional duties or taxes that apply.
What are the key criteria for classifying fabrics under HS code 520949?
To be classified under HS code 520949 ('Other fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m²'), the fabric must meet several conditions. Firstly, it must be composed of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton. Secondly, its weight must exceed 200 grams per square meter (g/m²). Thirdly, it must not be classifiable under more specific subheadings within Chapter 52 of the Harmonized System, which typically cover plain weave, twill weave, or other specific constructions. This code is for 'other' cotton fabrics meeting the weight and cotton content criteria.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520949, and what are the general requirements?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 520949. For example, under agreements like the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), US-Bahrain (BH), US-Chile (CL), US-Colombia (CO), US-Israel (IL), US-Jordan (JO), US-Korea (KR), US-Morocco (MA), US-Oman (OM), US-Peru (PE), US-Singapore (SG), and others, the duty rate can be Free (0%). To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must typically provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of eligibility demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Always verify the specific requirements of the applicable agreement.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 520949?
Standard import documentation for HS code 520949 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and potentially a certificate of origin, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the fabric (e.g., if it's intended for specific uses or requires compliance with certain standards), additional certifications or permits related to textile safety, flammability, or country of origin marking might be necessary. It is advisable to consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.