HS 521214 Of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of cotton, of yarns of different colours, imported under HS 521214 enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US at 16.5% ad valorem under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff, though preferential rates may apply for certain trading partners. This classification specifically applies to woven cotton fabrics where the yarns used in their construction are of different colours, creating a patterned or multi-hued appearance. Importers and customs brokers should note the significant duty rate difference for the US market compared to the UK and EU. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential rates for the US.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212140000 | — | — | — |
| 5212141000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212141010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212141090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212149000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212141000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212149000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212140000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212141010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212141090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 521214 | — | — | — |
| 52121410 | 16.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5212141010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5212141020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 52121460 | 7.8% | 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 5212.14?
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, 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 521214 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, containing predominantly 85% or more by weight of cotton, not less than 300 threads per square decimeter (193 threads per square inch), and weighing more than 200 g/m². Specifically, HS 521214 applies to such fabrics that are made from yarns of different colours, as per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the specific construction and coloration of the cotton fabric.
What falls outside HS 521214?
The following products are excluded from HS 521214: fabrics made from yarns of a single colour, even if woven together; fabrics made from cotton but not meeting the weight or thread count requirements; fabrics composed of less than 85% cotton by weight; and fabrics made from other textile materials, such as synthetic or artificial fibers, or blends where cotton is not the predominant component. For instance, printed cotton fabrics or embroidered cotton fabrics would be classified elsewhere under Heading 5212.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 521214?
A common error is misinterpreting "yarns of different colours." This refers to the yarns themselves being dyed prior to weaving, not to the fabric being printed or dyed after weaving. Importers may mistakenly classify printed cotton fabrics under this subheading, when they should be classified under other subheadings within 5212 or even other headings depending on the printing process. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Section XI Notes is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 521214?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 521214 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the fiber content, ensuring cotton constitutes at least 85% by weight. Next, verify the fabric construction, specifically the thread count per square decimeter (minimum 300) and weight (over 200 g/m²). Crucially, ascertain that the yarns used in the weaving process are of different colours, not that the fabric is printed or dyed post-weaving.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 521214?
A shipment of 1,000 square meters of 100% cotton twill fabric, woven from yarns of different colours, weighing 2,500 kg (2.5 kg/m²), and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 8.5% ad valorem from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be $425.00 USD (8.5% × $5,000 USD). This calculation is based on the declared value, as the ad valorem rate is applied.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 521214?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 521214, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 521214, 'Other woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m², of yarns of different colours'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 521214 is generally 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available 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 others may be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements. For instance, the EU TARIC database and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed information on these rates.
How is the classification of HS code 521214 determined, specifically the 'of yarns of different colours' aspect?
HS code 521214 falls under 'Other woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m²'. The sub-heading 'of yarns of different colours' specifically refers to fabrics where the yarns used in the warp and weft are of different colours, creating a patterned effect. This is distinct from fabrics dyed after weaving or printing. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance on distinguishing between fabrics made from yarns of different colours and those that are piece-dyed or printed. Importers should ensure the fabric's construction aligns with this definition to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 521214?
Standard import documentation for HS code 521214 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates, an origin certificate or declaration (e.g., EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration on invoice, or a statement of origin) is required, demonstrating that the goods originate from a country with which the importing country has a preferential trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or fabric swatches if requested by customs authorities to verify the classification, particularly regarding the yarn composition and colouration.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 521214?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 521214. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea (US-Korea FTA), Colombia (US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement), and Peru (US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement), which may provide duty-free entry. The European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its various Free Trade Agreements with countries worldwide also influence duty rates. The UK's trading arrangements post-Brexit, including its Global Tariff and specific trade deals, are also relevant. Importers must consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country to identify applicable agreements and their benefits.
How is the import duty for HS code 521214 calculated? Can you provide a numerical example?
The import duty for HS code 521214 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the declared customs value of a shipment of fabric is $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 8.00% = $800 USD. If the importing country has specific weight-based duties or other charges in addition to ad valorem duties, those would be calculated separately and added to the total import cost. Always confirm the exact duty calculation method and any additional fees with the customs authorities or a licensed customs broker.