HS 551221 Containing 85 % or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 81%. This classification applies to fabrics made predominantly from synthetic staple fibres like acrylic, often used in apparel and home furnishings. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity in the US, where preferential trade agreements can lead to duty-free entry for qualifying countries. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country of origin rules for US imports.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5512210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5512210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55122100 | 12% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5512210020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512210010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512210030 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512210040 | — | — | ["m²","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 5512.21?
Imports of Containing 85 % or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 551221 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing 85% or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to fabrics that meet the specified fibre content threshold. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this category to include plain weave, twill, or satin weaves of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, provided the 85% minimum content is met.
What falls outside HS 551221?
The following products are excluded from HS 551221: fabrics with less than 85% by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, which would be classified under other headings in Chapter 55 based on their predominant fibre content. Also excluded are fabrics of synthetic filament yarn (Chapter 54), knitted or crocheted fabrics (Chapter 60), and fabrics that have undergone specific finishing processes that alter their fundamental character, such as those classified in Chapter 59. For instance, felt or non-wovens are not included.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551221?
A common error is miscalculating the fibre content, especially when blends are present. Importers may fail to account for all components or incorrectly assume a fabric falls under this subheading without verifying the precise weight percentage of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres. This can lead to misclassification, as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3, which dictates that goods mixed from different materials are classified according to the material or component which gives them their essential character. Incorrectly assuming the predominant fibre without precise calculation is a frequent pitfall.
How should importers classify products under HS 551221?
The correct procedure for classifying woven fabrics under HS 551221 involves a two-step process: first, accurately determine the fibre composition by weight of the fabric, ensuring acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres constitute 85% or more. Second, confirm that the fabric is indeed a woven material and not knitted or crocheted. Importers and customs brokers must consult laboratory test reports or manufacturer declarations to verify fibre content and consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, for definitive guidance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551221?
A bolt of acrylic staple fibre woven fabric weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5512.21.00. Note that specific end-uses or origins might alter this rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551221?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551221, 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 duties for originating goods from certain developing countries. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For GSP, a Form A certificate of origin is generally mandated by the importing country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 551221, and how can preferential rates be accessed?
For HS code 551221, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, goods originating 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 others may benefit from duty-free entry (Free). To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the specific trade agreement.
What specific criteria determine if a fabric falls under HS code 551221, 'Containing 85 % or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres'?
To be classified under HS code 551221, the fabric must meet two primary criteria: 1. It must be woven or tufted. 2. It must contain 85% or more by weight of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres. This percentage is calculated based on the total weight of the fibres in the fabric. For example, if a fabric weighs 1000 grams and 850 grams or more of that weight consists of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, it would meet this criterion. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on fibre composition and fabric types.
What documentation is essential for importing goods classified under HS code 551221 to ensure compliance and claim potential preferential duties?
Essential documentation for importing goods under HS code 551221 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to benefit from preferential duty rates under FTAs, a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) is required. The specific format and requirements for the COO will depend on the trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or laboratory test reports confirming the fibre content (85% or more acrylic/modacrylic staple fibres) if requested by customs authorities. Referencing the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC system for specific country requirements is advisable.
How is the import duty for HS code 551221 calculated, and can you provide a numerical example?
The import duty for HS code 551221 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the declared customs value of a shipment of fabric is $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = 8.00% of $10,000 USD = $800 USD. If a preferential rate of Free applies due to an FTA, the duty would be $0 USD, provided all origin requirements are met.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 551221, and what are the general implications?
Several trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 551221. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like Chile, Colombia, and South Korea, which often provide reduced or duty-free access for qualifying goods. The European Union's TARIC system reflects preferential rates under agreements with numerous partners. The UK Trade Tariff also details preferential rates for its trading partners. The general implication is that importers can achieve substantial cost savings by ensuring their goods meet the rules of origin for these agreements and providing the correct documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin.