HS 521221 Weighing more than 200 g/m2
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m2, enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem. In the US, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 16.5% ad valorem, though preferential rates are available for certain Free Trade Agreement partners. This classification specifically applies to heavier cotton textiles, distinguishing them from lighter weaves. Importers should verify specific preferential duty rates applicable to their country of origin. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212211090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212210000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212211090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219010 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212219090 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5212210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5212216010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5212216050 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5212216090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 521221 | — | — | — |
| 52122110 | 16.5% | 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 5212.21?
Imports of Weighing 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 521221 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of cotton, not containing synthetic staple fibres, weighing more than 200 g/m². According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes cotton fabrics that exceed this weight threshold. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this classification for heavier cotton textiles, distinguishing them from lighter weight fabrics under heading 5212. These fabrics are typically used for more durable goods.
What falls outside HS 521221?
The following products are excluded from HS 521221: woven fabrics of cotton weighing 200 g/m² or less, which are classified under HS 521222. Additionally, fabrics containing synthetic staple fibres, even if they are predominantly cotton, are classified elsewhere. For instance, a heavy cotton canvas blended with 10% polyester would not fall under this code. Similarly, finished articles made from these fabrics, such as towels or bed linens, are classified in their respective chapters, not as raw fabric.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 521221?
A common error is miscalculating or misstating the weight per square meter. Importers may rely on supplier documentation without verifying the actual weight, leading to incorrect classification. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the fabric weighs 195 g/m², it should be classified under HS 521222, not 521221, even if it is otherwise a cotton fabric of heading 5212.
How should importers classify products under HS 521221?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 521221 involves first confirming that the fabric is indeed made of cotton and is woven. Subsequently, the precise weight per square meter must be accurately determined, ensuring it exceeds 200 g/m². Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the specific wording of heading 5212 and its subheadings to confirm the correct classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 521221?
A bolt of heavy cotton denim weighing 500 square meters and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 521221. Note that specific countries may have different rates.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 521221?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 521221, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), where qualifying goods from Canada and Mexico may receive a duty rate of Free. For goods originating from countries that are beneficiaries of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, a reduced rate or Free may apply. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a GSP Form A, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 521221 (woven fabrics of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m2)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 521221 is generally 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements with the importing nation. For example, under certain agreements, the duty rate can be Free (e.g., for imports from Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Morocco, Oman, Peru, Singapore, and others). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country to determine the applicable rate, as rates can vary significantly. The UK Trade Tariff, for instance, lists a standard rate of 16.5% for non-preferential imports, with Free entry for goods from specific partner countries under Free Trade Agreements.
How is the 'weighing more than 200 g/m2' criterion for HS 521221 determined?
The classification under HS code 521221 hinges on the weight of the woven cotton fabric. Importers must ensure the fabric's weight exceeds 200 grams per square meter (g/m2). This measurement is typically verified through laboratory testing or by referring to the manufacturer's specifications, often found on the commercial invoice, packing list, or technical data sheets. Accurate weight determination is critical to avoid misclassification and potential penalties.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 521221?
Standard import documentation for HS code 521221 includes 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 required. This document must certify that the goods originate from a country that is a party to the relevant trade agreement. The specific format and requirements for the COO can vary by agreement, so consulting the importing country's customs regulations or the relevant trade agreement text is essential.
Can you provide an example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 521221?
Certainly. Let's assume an importer brings 10,000 square meters of woven cotton fabric classified under HS 521221 into the United States, with an invoice value of $2.50 per square meter. The MFN duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem. The total value of the shipment is 10,000 m² * $2.50/m² = $25,000. The import duty would be calculated as 8.00% of $25,000, which equals $2,000. Therefore, the duty amount is $2,000. If a preferential rate applied, for instance, Free, the duty would be $0.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 521221?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 521221. For example, the United States has agreements like the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and others that may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying goods. The European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide also impact duties. Similarly, the UK has its own network of FTAs post-Brexit. Importers should verify if their goods qualify for preferential treatment under agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) or bilateral agreements relevant to their supply chain.