HS 521151 Printed
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics of a value not exceeding USD 8/kg imported under HS 521151 enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US at 25.9% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% cotton by weight, predominantly, but not exclusively, printed with a pattern, and of a value not exceeding USD 8 per kilogram. Importers should note that while the EU and UK rates are consistent, the US rate is significantly higher. For accurate and up-to-date duty information across multiple jurisdictions, CustomTariffs aggregates comprehensive tariff data. Exporters should ensure accurate declaration of fabric composition and value to avoid classification disputes.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5211510010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5211510000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5211510090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5211510010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5211510090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5211510000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5211510020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5211510030 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 52115100 | Free | — | — |
| 5211510050 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5211510090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 521151 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed principally or solely with man-made fibres, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m², and printed. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, "printed" refers to fabrics that have undergone a process of printing, such as screen printing, roller printing, or digital printing, to impart a pattern or design. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the weight, fibre composition, and the presence of printed designs on cotton-based woven fabrics.
What falls outside HS 521151?
The following products are excluded from HS 521151: woven fabrics of cotton that are not printed, or those that are dyed or have other finishes but lack a printed design. Fabrics weighing 200 g/m² or less, even if printed, are classified elsewhere. Unprinted cotton blends exceeding 200 g/m² would fall under HS 5211.41 (unbleached) or 5211.42 (bleached) if they meet the weight and fibre criteria but lack the printing. Similarly, fabrics primarily of man-made fibres with less than 85% cotton would be classified under Chapter 55.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 521151?
A common error is misinterpreting the "printed" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify fabrics that are merely dyed or have inherent colour variations from the spinning process as printed. Another mistake involves overlooking the weight threshold of exceeding 200 g/m² or the fibre composition requirement of less than 85% cotton, mixed principally or solely with man-made fibres. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, the classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the specific characteristics of the fabric.
How should importers classify products under HS 521151?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 521151 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first ascertain the fibre content by weight, confirming it is less than 85% cotton and principally mixed with man-made fibres. Next, the weight per square meter must be determined to ensure it exceeds 200 g/m². Crucially, the fabric must have undergone a printing process to impart a design. Reviewing technical specifications and supplier declarations is essential to confirm these criteria before assigning the subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 521151?
A bolt of printed cotton-blend fabric weighing 250 kg and 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. The calculation is: 20% × $5,000 USD = $1,000.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 5211.51.0000. Note that specific quantities might also be subject to additional duties or specific rates depending on the exact product and country of origin.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 521151?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 521151, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada or Mexico can achieve a duty 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, depending on the value and specific circumstances. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for specific countries, but USMCA is a prominent example for North American trade, requiring proof of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 521151, 'Printed'?
For HS code 521151, which covers 'Woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% cotton by weight, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, of a weight exceeding 200 g/m2, printed', the duty rates can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 8.00% ad valorem. The European Union, under the TARIC system, may have different rates depending on the origin and specific product details, often ranging from 0% to higher percentages. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rate.
How is the 'printed' status determined for HS code 521151, and what are the classification criteria?
The classification under HS code 521151 hinges on the fabric being 'printed'. Printing is defined as the application of color in patterns to the surface of the fabric by any process, other than by stenciling, or by hand-block. The pattern must be clearly discernible and cover a significant portion of the fabric's surface. If the fabric is dyed in a uniform color or has a pattern created by the weaving process itself (e.g., jacquard), it would not be classified under this 'printed' subheading. The composition (cotton mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibers) and weight (exceeding 200 g/m2) are also critical criteria.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 521151?
When importing goods classified under HS code 521151, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide evidence that the fabric meets the specified composition and weight requirements, and that it is indeed 'printed' as per the classification criteria. Some countries may require specific textile labeling information.
Are there common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 521151?
Yes, many trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for HS code 521151, depending on the origin of the goods and the importing country. For instance, goods originating from countries that are part of the European Union's preferential trade agreements might benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the EU. Similarly, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may provide preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Importers should verify if the country of origin has a specific trade agreement with the destination country and ensure all rules of origin are met to claim these benefits. The WCO (World Customs Organization) provides a framework, but specific rates are governed by bilateral or multilateral agreements.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 521151, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 521151 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate in the United States is 8.00% and an importer declares a shipment of printed cotton-blend fabric with a customs value of $10,000, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 8.00% (Duty Rate) = $800 (Import Duty). Some countries might also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always confirm the applicable duty calculation method and rates with the destination country's customs authority.