HS 551612 Dyed
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of artificial staple fibres, dyed, imported under HS 5516.12 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 14.9% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This classification specifically covers woven fabrics made from artificial staple fibres that have undergone a dyeing process. Importers should be aware that the US also offers duty-free entry for this product from certain Free Trade Agreement partners, and a significantly higher rate of 81% applies under other tariff provisions. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying rates is crucial for accurate duty assessment and cost planning in international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516120000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516120000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516120010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55161200 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5516120020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516120090 | — | — | ["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 5516.12?
Imports of Dyed 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 551612 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those that are dyed. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to fabrics containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, which have undergone a dyeing process after weaving. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the dyeing is the key characteristic distinguishing these fabrics from undyed or printed varieties within heading 5516.
What falls outside HS 551612?
The following products are excluded from HS 551612: fabrics that are printed, or those that are made from yarns of different colours woven into a pattern (often referred to as "yarn-dyed" or "piece-dyed" if the entire fabric is dyed after weaving). Fabrics containing less than 85% synthetic staple fibres, or those made from synthetic filament yarns, are classified elsewhere under Chapter 55. For instance, printed synthetic staple fibre fabrics fall under HS 551614.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551612?
A common error is misinterpreting the dyeing process. Importers may incorrectly classify fabrics that are printed with a dyed effect as dyed, or confuse piece-dyed fabrics with those made from pre-dyed yarns. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are classifiable by two or more headings, the heading which provides the most specific description shall be preferred. For dyed fabrics, the dyeing process is the defining characteristic for this subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 551612?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551612 involves verifying the fibre content and the dyeing status of the woven fabric. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the fabric is composed of 85% or more synthetic staple fibres and that the dyeing occurred after the weaving process. Reviewing the manufacturer's specifications, technical data sheets, and visual inspection of the fabric are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551612?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dyed polyester staple fibre fabric, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5516.12.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551612?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551612, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for certain developing countries. Under USMCA, eligible fabrics originating from Mexico or Canada would be dutiable at Free. For GSP beneficiaries, preferential rates can be as low as Free, contingent upon meeting Rules of Origin. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 5516.12, covering "Dyed" woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.12 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements with the importing nation. For example, under certain agreements, goods 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 receive duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU's TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm applicable rates based on the country of origin and any relevant trade preferences. Some specific trade agreements or circumstances might lead to higher rates, such as 14.9% or even 81% in certain non-preferential scenarios.
How is the duty for HS code 5516.12 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 5516.12 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the customs value of a shipment of dyed woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres is $10,000 USD, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.08 = $800 USD. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the valuation rules of the importing country (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement). Some tariffs may also include specific duties or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, requiring careful examination of the tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for fabrics to fall under HS code 5516.12?
To be classified under HS code 5516.12, the woven fabric must meet several criteria: 1. Material Composition: It must be made of synthetic staple fibres, as defined by Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System. 2. Weave Type: It must be a woven fabric (as opposed to knitted or felted). 3. Dyeing Status: The fabric must be dyed. This means the colour is imparted after the fabric has been woven, distinguishing it from 'yarn dyed' fabrics (which would fall under a different subheading if the yarn was dyed before weaving). The specific weight and construction of the fabric are also considered, but the primary factors are the fibre type, weave, and whether it is dyed. Refer to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 5516.12?
When importing goods classified under HS code 5516.12, standard import documentation is required, which generally includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: As the transport document. 4. Certificate of Origin: Essential for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This document must accurately state the country of origin and comply with the requirements of the relevant trade agreement. 5. Import Declaration: Submitted to customs authorities. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional certifications related to safety, quality, or environmental standards may be necessary. Always verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 5516.12?
Several major trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 5516.12. For imports into the United States, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and bilateral agreements with countries such as Chile, Singapore, and South Korea offer preferential rates. For imports into the European Union, the EU's network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea, Canada, and Japan can provide duty-free access. The United Kingdom's trade agreements post-Brexit, such as the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement and FTAs with countries like Australia and Japan, also impact duty rates. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement to benefit from these preferential rates, often requiring a valid Certificate of Origin.