HS 530110 Flax, raw or retted
Quick Answer: Flax, raw or retted, imported under HS 530110 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free, 0.3¢/kg. This classification covers flax fiber in its initial state, either directly harvested (raw) or processed through soaking to separate the fibers (retted). These are the foundational stages of flax processing before further manufacturing. Importers should note the specific weight-based duty in the US, which requires precise measurement for accurate duty calculation. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the generally favorable duty treatment for this raw agricultural commodity across major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301100000 | Free | — | ["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 530110 cover?
This subheading covers flax, raw or retted, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes flax fiber that has undergone the process of retting, which is the biological or chemical decomposition of the pectin and other substances binding the flax fiber to the woody core, making the fiber separable. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this definition, focusing on the initial stages of flax processing before further mechanical separation or spinning.
What falls outside HS 530110?
The following products are excluded from HS 530110: flax that has been scutched, hackled, or otherwise processed beyond retting to separate the fibers, as these fall under subsequent headings. For example, scutched flax, which has undergone mechanical separation of the fiber, is classified under HS 530121. Similarly, tow of flax, which consists of shorter fibers resulting from processing, is classified under HS 530130. Raw flax seed for sowing or oil extraction is also not covered by this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 530110?
A common error is misclassifying flax that has undergone initial mechanical processing, such as scutching, under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for the interpretation of the Harmonized System, goods are often classified by their essential character. If flax has been significantly processed beyond simple retting to separate the fibers, it likely possesses the essential character of a more advanced product, such as scutched flax, and should be classified accordingly under a different heading or subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 530110?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 530110 involves a thorough examination of the processing steps the flax has undergone. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the material is solely raw or has been retted, without further mechanical separation of fibers. Consulting the official descriptions in the WCO HS Nomenclature, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC is crucial. Verification of the supplier's documentation and product specifications will confirm whether the material meets the criteria for raw or retted flax.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 530110?
A bale of raw flax weighing 200 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 530110 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0.0% ad valorem. Therefore, the calculation is 0.0% × $500 USD = $0.00. This rate is applicable to imports from countries not benefiting from specific trade agreements or special tariff provisions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 530110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 530110, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, many developing countries benefit from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), potentially offering a Free duty rate. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For GSP, a GSP Form A is usually needed, depending on the importing country's specific requirements.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 530110 (Flax, raw or retted)?
The import duty rates for HS code 530110 (Flax, raw or retted) vary by country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the European Union, as per the TARIC database, the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) rate is 0.00%. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a rate of Free for most origins. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
How is 'raw or retted' flax defined for HS classification under 530110?
For HS code 530110, 'raw flax' refers to flax fiber that has not undergone any processing beyond initial retting. Retting is a process that separates the flax fiber from the woody core of the plant, typically achieved through microbial action (dew retting, water retting) or mechanical means. 'Retted flax' has completed this separation process. Fibers that have been scutched (cleaned and separated), hackled (combed), or further processed into slivers or rovings would fall under different HS codes, such as 530121 or 530122.
What documentation is typically required for importing raw or retted flax under HS 530110?
Standard import documentation for HS 530110 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are being claimed under a trade agreement. Phytosanitary certificates might also be necessary to ensure the flax is free from pests and diseases, particularly if it is intended for agricultural or industrial use where such contamination could be an issue. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Do trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS 530110?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For instance, if flax originated from a country that is party to a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country, it might qualify for preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry or a reduced tariff. For example, flax imported into the United States from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) would typically benefit from preferential treatment. Similarly, flax from countries with FTAs with the EU might receive reduced duties. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation.
How is the duty calculated for HS 530110 if a specific duty rate applies, for example, 0.3¢/kg?
If a specific duty rate applies, such as the 0.3¢/kg example, the duty is calculated based on the net weight of the imported goods. For instance, if an importer brings in 10,000 kilograms of raw or retted flax, the duty calculation would be: 10,000 kg × 0.3¢/kg = 3,000¢. This amount would then be converted to the local currency. If the duty were an ad valorem rate (e.g., 3.5%), the calculation would be based on the declared value of the goods: Value × 3.5%. It's common for tariffs to have both specific and ad valorem components (e.g., '3.5% ad valorem plus 0.3¢/kg'), requiring both calculations and summing the results.