HS 551291 Other
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, not containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, classified under HS code 5512.91, enter the UK at 8.00% and the EU at 8.00% ad valorem. In the United States, this classification encompasses a range of duties, with the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rate being 14.9% ad valorem, though certain free trade agreement partners benefit from duty-free entry. This residual "other" category within Chapter 55 signifies fabrics that do not meet the specific criteria of other subheadings, requiring careful examination of fibre composition and weave. Importers should consult specific trade agreements and the relevant customs authorities for precise duty application. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5512910000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5512910000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5512910010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512910020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512910040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512910070 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5512910090 | — | — | ["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 5512.91?
Imports of Other 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 551291 cover?
This subheading covers other woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, not specified in subheading 551211 or 551219. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses a broad range of woven materials composed of synthetic staple fibres, excluding those specifically detailed in preceding subheadings of Heading 5512. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to fabrics that do not meet the criteria for specific types of polyester or other synthetic staple fibre fabrics, provided they are composed of staple fibres and are not blends with other fibres exceeding certain thresholds. The key is that the primary component is synthetic staple fibre, and the fabric is woven.
What falls outside HS 551291?
The following products are excluded from HS 551291: woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres that are specifically classified under subheadings 551211 (containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, unbleached or bleached) and 551219 (containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, dyed). Additionally, fabrics composed of synthetic filament yarn, fabrics of artificial staple fibres, or woven fabrics where synthetic staple fibres are not the predominant component by weight (e.g., blends where cotton or wool is more than 50% by weight) are classified elsewhere. For example, a woven fabric of 60% cotton and 40% polyester staple fibre would not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551291?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation, leading to the incorrect classification of fabrics that should be specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings, particularly within 5512. For example, mistaking a fabric predominantly of polyester staple fibres for this "other" category, when it should be classified under 551211 or 551219, is a frequent issue. This often stems from not carefully adhering to the percentage requirements for polyester staple fibres as stipulated by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1 and GRI 3(b) when dealing with mixed materials, which dictate that classification is determined by the essential character of the good.
How should importers classify products under HS 551291?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551291 involves a detailed examination of the fabric's composition and construction. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the fabric is woven and if its primary component by weight is synthetic staple fibre. If it is, they must then verify if it meets the specific criteria for polyester staple fibre fabrics under subheadings 551211 or 551219. If it does not, and is not otherwise excluded, it can be classified under 551291. Consulting the official WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551291?
A bolt of 100 square meters of a woven fabric of acrylic staple fibres, weighing 15 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 5.0% = $25.00), plus a specific duty of $0.50 per square meter ($0.50/sqm × 100 sqm = $50.00), totaling $75.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 551299 (which covers "Other" woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres not elsewhere specified).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551291?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551291, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to 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 goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing country and the origin of the goods.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 551291?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551291, which covers 'Other' woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, is typically 8.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available for countries with trade agreements. 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) under specific agreements may be Free. It is crucial to consult the latest US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most current and precise rates applicable to your origin country.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 551291?
The duty for HS code 551291 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import fabric valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be $10,000 USD * 8.00% = $800 USD. Always ensure your customs value is correctly determined according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, which typically follows the transaction value method.
What classification criteria distinguish HS code 551291 from other synthetic staple fiber fabric codes?
HS code 551291 specifically applies to 'Other' woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres where the fabric contains 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres. The 'Other' designation implies it covers fabrics not specifically enumerated under preceding subheadings within heading 5512. Key classification factors include the fibre composition (at least 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight) and the weave type (woven). Importers must ensure the fabric's composition and construction align precisely with the product description to avoid misclassification. Referencing the Chapter 55 Notes in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule is essential.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 551291?
When importing fabrics under HS code 551291, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, a certificate of origin is crucial, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. The manufacturer's declaration of fibre content may also be requested by customs authorities to verify compliance with the 85% synthetic staple fibre requirement. Importers should consult with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or their customs broker for any specific or additional documentation needs.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551291?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free entry, for HS code 551291. Notably, the United States has agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) that may grant reduced or eliminated duties on these synthetic staple fibre fabrics. Importers must verify the specific terms and conditions of each agreement and ensure their goods meet the rules of origin to qualify for these benefits. Consulting the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically the General Notes and the rates of duty section for 551291, is the definitive step.