HS 530130 Flax tow and waste
Quick Answer: Flax tow and waste imported under HS 530130 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers the coarse, broken fibers and residual material resulting from the processing of flax, often referred to as "tow" or "waste." These materials are typically used in the production of lower-grade textiles, paper, or as insulation. Importers should be aware that while duty rates are currently favorable across these major markets, compliance with any specific import regulations or certifications for agricultural by-products remains essential. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for ease of trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5301300000 | 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 530130 cover?
This subheading covers flax tow and waste, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Flax tow consists of the shorter fibers separated from the coarser flax fibers during the retting and scutching processes, while flax waste comprises unusable fragments or by-products of flax processing. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes all forms of flax material that are not suitable for spinning into yarn or thread, often appearing as short fibers, dust, or broken pieces.
What falls outside HS 530130?
The following products are excluded from HS 530130: flax fibers that are long enough for spinning (classified under HS 5301.10), flax sliver and rovings (HS 5301.21 and 5301.29), and flax yarn or thread (Chapter 50). Additionally, finished or semi-finished goods made from flax, such as woven fabrics or garments, are classified in their respective chapters. For instance, flax fabrics fall under Chapter 52 or 53 depending on their specific composition and weave, and flax-based apparel is typically found in Chapter 61 or 62.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 530130?
A common error is misclassifying flax tow or waste that has undergone some degree of processing or treatment. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If flax tow or waste has been carded, combed, or otherwise prepared to resemble sliver or roving, it may be correctly classified under HS 5301.21 or 5301.29, rather than as raw tow or waste. Importers must carefully assess the degree of processing.
How should importers classify products under HS 530130?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 530130 involves a thorough examination of the material's physical characteristics and processing stage. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff or the USITC HTS. Key factors include the length of the flax fibers, the presence of impurities, and any mechanical or chemical treatments applied. If the material consists of short, broken flax fibers or by-products of flax processing, and is not suitable for direct spinning, it likely falls under this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 530130?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of flax tow, declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is $2,000 USD × 5.0% = $100.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 5301.30.0000. Note that specific duties may also apply in some jurisdictions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 530130?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 530130, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating flax tow and waste from Canada and Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid Certificate of Origin or an origin statement on the commercial invoice is typically required, depending on the value and specific regulations of the importing country. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for specific origin countries, but USMCA is a prominent example for North American trade.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 530130 (Flax tow and waste)?
For HS code 530130, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is Free. Similarly, the United Kingdom's tariff rate is Free, and the European Union's TARIC system also lists a duty rate of 0.00%. Importers should always verify current rates as these can be subject to change based on trade agreements or specific country regulations.
What specific criteria define 'flax tow and waste' under HS code 530130?
HS code 530130 covers flax tow and waste. Flax tow consists of the shorter flax fibers that remain after the longer fibers have been separated during the hackling process. Flax waste refers to by-products and unusable fragments generated during the processing of flax fiber. Both are typically characterized by shorter staple lengths and are not suitable for direct spinning into fine yarns without further processing or blending.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that commonly apply to imports of flax tow and waste (HS 530130)?
Given that the standard duty rates for HS 530130 are often Free (e.g., US MFN, UK, EU), preferential rates under trade agreements may not always result in further reductions. However, importers should consult specific trade agreements, such as the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries or bilateral agreements, to confirm if any additional benefits or specific documentation requirements apply. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing nation might require a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential treatment, although in this case, the base rate is already free.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 530130, and can you provide an example?
Since the duty rate for HS code 530130 is typically Free (0.00%), the calculated duty amount is zero. Duty calculation is usually based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if an importer brings in 1,000 kg of flax waste into the US, and the MFN duty rate is 0.00%, the calculation would be: Value of Goods × 0.00% = Duty Amount, or Quantity × Specific Rate = Duty Amount. In this scenario, 1,000 kg × $0/kg = $0 duty, or Value × 0.00% = $0 duty. The importer is still responsible for customs fees and taxes that may apply.
What documentation is typically required when importing flax tow and waste (HS 530130)?
Standard documentation for importing HS code 530130 includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, description, and value of the goods; a packing list; and a 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 (though often not applicable for this code due to its free status). Importers should also be prepared for potential inspections by customs authorities to verify the classification and condition of the goods.