HS 550210 Of cellulose acetate
Quick Answer: Cellulose acetate fibers imported under HS 550210 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 7.5% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically covers artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate, which are continuous strands of this synthetic material, often used in textiles and other industrial applications. Importers should be aware of the varying tariff rates across major markets, as detailed in CustomTariffs. Exporters should ensure accurate product descriptions to facilitate correct classification and duty assessment. Customs brokers should verify origin and eligibility for any preferential duty rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5502100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5502100000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5502100000 | 7.5% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
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 5502.10?
Imports of Of cellulose acetate 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 550210 cover?
This subheading covers artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Specifically, it includes continuous strands of cellulose acetate fibers, not yet cut to staple length, intended for further processing into yarns or other textile materials. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category pertains to the unspun, untwisted form of cellulose acetate filament.
What falls outside HS 550210?
The following products are excluded from HS 550210: cut staple fibers of cellulose acetate (classified under HS 5504), yarns spun from cellulose acetate tow (classified under HS 5505), and fabrics or other made-up textile articles incorporating cellulose acetate (classified in Chapters 50-63). Also excluded are cellulose acetate films or sheets not in tow form, which are typically classified under Chapter 39.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550210?
A common error is misclassifying cut staple fibers of cellulose acetate as tow. 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 cellulose acetate filament has been cut to a specific staple length, it is no longer considered tow and should be classified under HS 5504.
How should importers classify products under HS 550210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550210 involves verifying that the material is indeed continuous filament tow of cellulose acetate and has not been cut into staple lengths. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Chapter 55 to ensure accurate classification based on the physical form and material composition.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550210?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of cellulose acetate tow, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem (0.035 × $5,000 USD = $175.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 5502.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 550210, 'Of cellulose acetate'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550210 is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from certain countries under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). 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 the United States (US) may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). Always verify the specific origin and eligibility requirements for preferential treatment with the relevant customs authority, such as the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the US market.
How is the import duty for HS code 550210 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 550210 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 100 kilograms of cellulose acetate yarn valued at $500.00 USD, the duty calculation would be: $500.00 (value) × 4.00% (duty rate) = $20.00 USD. If the goods are subject to specific duties (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be based on that unit rate multiplied by the quantity. Always consult the official tariff schedule for the exact calculation method.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 550210?
HS code 550210 specifically covers 'yarns of synthetic fibres, not put up for retail sale; of cellulose acetate'. The key classification criteria are: 1. The material must be a synthetic fiber. 2. The fiber must be specifically cellulose acetate. 3. The product must be in the form of yarn. 4. The yarn must not be put up for retail sale (e.g., in skeins or balls for direct consumer use). Misclassification can occur if the material is not cellulose acetate or if the product is a staple fiber or a finished textile.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 550210?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 550210 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the cellulose acetate yarn, additional certifications or declarations related to material composition, safety standards, or environmental compliance may be required. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550210?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550210. As mentioned, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) often provide duty-free (0.00%) or reduced duty rates. For example, the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) or the US-Chile Free Trade Agreement may allow for preferential treatment. Importers must ensure that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant Free Trade Agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these benefits. Referencing the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff can provide specific details for those markets.