HS 521211 Weighing not more than 200 g/m2
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics weighing not more than 200 g/m2 imported under HS 521211 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 16.5% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers woven fabrics of cotton, excluding those of a heavier weight. Importers should be aware of the US's preferential trade agreements, which can offer duty-free entry for certain originating countries. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212110000 | — | — | — |
| 5212111000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212111010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212111090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212110000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212111010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212119010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212119090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 521211 | — | — | — |
| 52121110 | 16.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5212111010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5212116020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5212111020 | — | — | ["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 5212.11?
Imports of Weighing not more than 200 g/m2 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 521211 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, weighing not more than 200 g/m², and not containing synthetic staple fibres, as per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Specifically, it includes plain weave cotton fabrics like sheeting, poplin, and percale, provided their weight falls within the specified limit. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the material composition and weight per square meter as primary classification criteria for these cotton textiles.
What falls outside HS 521211?
The following products are excluded from HS 521211: woven fabrics of cotton weighing more than 200 g/m², which are classified under HS 521212. Additionally, fabrics containing synthetic staple fibres, even if predominantly cotton, are classified elsewhere. Blended fabrics where cotton is not the principal component, or those with specific finishes or constructions not covered by general woven fabric definitions (e.g., knitted or crocheted fabrics, felt), are also excluded and would require separate classification under their respective HS headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 521211?
A common error is miscalculating the fabric's weight per square meter, leading to incorrect classification between subheadings 521211 and 521212. Importers may also fail to consider the presence of synthetic fibres, which, if exceeding certain thresholds, would necessitate classification under different headings. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial to avoid these mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 521211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 521211 involves a two-step process: first, confirm the fabric is woven and made of cotton. Second, accurately determine its weight per square meter. If the weight is 200 g/m² or less and it does not contain synthetic staple fibres, it falls under this subheading. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific product's technical specifications and, if necessary, obtain laboratory testing to verify the weight and composition before declaring to customs authorities.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 521211?
A bolt of 100% cotton plain weave fabric weighing 150 g/m², measuring 50 meters in length and 1.5 meters in width, with a declared customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty. The total area is 75 m². Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem for this fabric under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be $7.00 USD (3.5% × $200 USD). This calculation is based on the declared value, as the ad valorem rate is applied.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 521211?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 521211, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers "Free" duty for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The General System of Preferences (GSP) can provide duty-free entry for eligible goods from certain developing countries. 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 origin country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 521211, specifically for fabric weighing not more than 200 g/m²?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 521211 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce this. For example, under certain trade agreements like those 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, the duty rate can be Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment, as rates can vary by origin and specific trade agreement.
How is the classification of fabric under HS code 521211 determined, particularly the 'weighing not more than 200 g/m²' criterion?
The classification under HS code 521211 hinges on two primary factors: the material composition (cotton) and the weight per unit area. This specific subheading applies to woven fabrics of cotton, not specified or included elsewhere in Chapter 52, that weigh not more than 200 grams per square meter (g/m²). Importers must ensure they have accurate weight declarations from the supplier, typically found on the commercial invoice or packing list. If there is doubt, a sample may need to be tested to confirm the weight per square meter.
What documentation is essential when importing goods classified under HS code 521211?
When importing goods under HS code 521211, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) is usually mandatory. The COO must be issued by the competent authority of the exporting country and demonstrate that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Importers should also retain records of the fabric's weight per square meter for verification purposes.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 521211, and can you provide a numerical example?
The import duty for HS code 521211 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you are importing 1,000 square meters of fabric with a declared customs value of $2,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty = $2,000 USD × 8.00% = $160 USD. If a specific trade agreement grants free entry, the duty would be $0 USD. Always ensure the declared value is the correct customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of importation.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 521211, and what is the general impact on importers?
Several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates, often reducing the duty to Free, for HS code 521211. Notable examples include agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG). The impact on importers is significant cost savings, as the elimination of duties can substantially lower the landed cost of the goods. However, importers must diligently comply with the rules of origin and documentation requirements for each specific trade agreement to benefit from these reduced rates. Failure to meet these requirements can result in the application of the standard MFN duty rate.