HS 531010 Unbleached
Quick Answer: Jute fabrics imported under HS 531010 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 40% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers jute fabrics that have not undergone bleaching or other finishing processes, meaning they are in their natural, uncolored state. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity, particularly the high rate in the US, which may necessitate careful sourcing and supply chain planning. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates for each destination market.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5310101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5310100000 | — | — | — |
| 5310109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5310100000 | — | — | — |
| 5310101000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5310109000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5310100060 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 53101000 | Free | — | — |
| 5310100020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5310100040 | — | — | ["m²","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 531010 cover?
This subheading covers unbleached fabrics of jute, of coarse animal hair, or of paper yarn, falling under Heading 5310. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically pertains to woven fabrics of jute, which are characterized by their natural fibers and often used in sacking, carpet backing, and geotextiles. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are raw, undyed, and unfinished woven materials derived from jute plants.
What falls outside HS 531010?
The following products are excluded from HS 531010: bleached, dyed, or otherwise finished jute fabrics, as well as fabrics made from other textile materials like cotton, linen, or synthetic fibers. For instance, bleached jute fabric would be classified under a different subheading within Heading 5310, while jute yarn itself is classified in Heading 5307. Similarly, fabrics made from coarse animal hair, such as wool or camel hair, even if unbleached, would fall under different headings in Chapter 51, and paper yarn fabrics are classified under Heading 4823 if they are not woven.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 531010?
A common error is misclassifying jute fabrics that have undergone any form of processing beyond basic weaving, such as bleaching, dyeing, printing, or coating, under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), composite goods are classified according to the material or component that gives them their essential character. Importers may also mistakenly classify jute yarns or other jute products, which are covered by different HS codes, under 531010, failing to recognize that this subheading is specifically for woven fabrics.
How should importers classify products under HS 531010?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 531010 involves a thorough examination of the material composition and processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the fabric is indeed woven, made from jute, and crucially, that it remains unbleached and unfinished. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Heading 5310 is essential to confirm that the product meets all criteria for this specific subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 531010?
A bale of unbleached jute fabric weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $250 USD would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($250 USD × 0.05 = $12.50). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 531010.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 531010?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 531010, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from developing countries, such as Bangladesh or India. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```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 531010 (unbleached jute fabrics)?
Import duty rates for HS code 531010, which covers "Woven fabrics of jute", specifically "- Unbleached", vary by country. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 4.00% ad valorem. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often has a rate of 0.00% ad valorem for many origins, though specific trade agreements or anti-dumping measures might apply. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also typically shows a 0.00% duty rate for goods from most countries. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and destination at the time of import.
How is the duty for HS code 531010 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 531010 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the value of the imported goods. For instance, if you import unbleached jute fabric valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 4.00% (like the U.S. MFN rate), the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.04 (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, so it's crucial to check the specific tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 531010?
HS code 531010 specifically covers woven fabrics of jute that are unbleached. The primary criteria are: 1. Material: The fabric must be made predominantly from jute fibers. 2. Construction: It must be a woven fabric (as opposed to knitted, felted, etc.). 3. Condition: The fabric must be unbleached, meaning it has not undergone any bleaching process. Fabrics that have been bleached, dyed, or otherwise finished would fall under different subheadings within HS 5310.
Are there common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for HS code 531010?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 531010 are often available through various trade agreements. For example, the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with developing countries can result in reduced or zero duty rates. Similarly, the United States has trade preference programs like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which might offer benefits for eligible jute products from qualifying African nations. Importers should always investigate if their goods qualify for preferential treatment under applicable trade agreements, which typically requires a Certificate of Origin.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 531010?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 531010. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to ensure correct duty assessment and to claim any preferential treatment, a Certificate of Origin is often mandatory. This document verifies the country where the jute fabric was manufactured or processed. Depending on the importing country's regulations, additional certifications regarding material content or safety standards might also be requested.