HS 551623 Of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those woven from yarns of different colours, enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US at 8.5% ad valorem under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff. This classification applies to woven fabrics composed of synthetic staple fibres, where the constituent yarns are of varying colours. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available for goods originating from specific trade agreement partners in the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals in navigating these import requirements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516239000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5516230000 | — | — | — |
| 5516231000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516230000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5516239000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5516231000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516230090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516230010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516230020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516230030 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55162300 | 8.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
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 5516.23?
Imports of Of yarns of different colours 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 551623 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those not of a plain weave, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, and which are of yarns of different colours. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is determined by the fibre content and the colouration of the yarns used in the weaving process, distinguishing it from fabrics of a single colour or those with different fibre compositions. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the visual characteristic of multi-colored yarns forming the fabric.
What falls outside HS 551623?
The following products are excluded from HS 551623: woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres that are of a plain weave, fabrics where the yarns are not of different colours (i.e., solid color), or fabrics containing less than 85% by weight of synthetic staple fibres. For instance, a solid blue polyester staple fibre fabric of plain weave would be classified elsewhere, as would a fabric predominantly of cotton with some synthetic staple fibres. Fabrics made from continuous filament synthetic yarns, rather than staple fibres, are also excluded and fall under different headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551623?
A common error is misinterpreting "yarns of different colours." This refers to the yarns themselves being dyed or spun in different colours before weaving, creating a multi-hued fabric. Mistaking this for a printed fabric or a fabric where the colour is achieved through a post-weaving dyeing process can lead to incorrect classification. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures might also be misapplied if the primary characteristic of multi-coloured yarns is not correctly identified as the determining factor for this specific subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 551623?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551623 involves a two-step verification process. First, confirm that the fabric is woven and composed of synthetic staple fibres, and that these fibres constitute 85% or more of the total weight. Second, ascertain that the yarns used in the fabric's construction are of different colours, not achieved through printing or post-weaving dyeing. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific product's composition and manufacturing details, cross-referencing with the official tariff schedules of the importing country.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551623?
A 100% polyester staple fibre woven fabric, not of a plain weave, with yarns of different colours, weighing 150 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $750 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem for this classification under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be calculated as 7.5% of $750 USD, resulting in a duty amount of $56.25 USD. This calculation is based on the declared value of the imported goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551623?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551623, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free (0%) duty for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for originating goods from certain developing countries. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. For GSP, a GSP Form A is generally needed, depending on the importing country's specific requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 5516.23, covering woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, of yarns of different colours?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.23 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the importing country. 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 enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the origin of the goods to determine the applicable duty rate. The UK Trade Tariff, for instance, lists various rates, including a standard rate and preferential rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 5516.23? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 5516.23 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem and you import 1,000 square meters of fabric with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $5,000 USD (value) * 8.00% (duty rate) = $400 USD. Some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the exact duty calculation method in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 5516.23?
HS code 5516.23 specifically covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, characterized by the use of yarns of different colours. The primary criteria for classification under this code are: 1. Material: The fabric must be made from synthetic staple fibres (e.g., polyester staple fibre, nylon staple fibre). Blended staple fibres are also considered if synthetic fibres predominate by weight. 2. Weave: The fabric must be woven, not knitted or crocheted. 3. Yarn Colour: The fabric must be made using yarns of different colours. This means the colour pattern is achieved by using pre-coloured yarns, rather than by printing or dyeing the fabric after weaving. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between fabrics made from yarns of different colours and those that are printed or uniformly dyed.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 5516.23?
When importing goods classified under HS code 5516.23, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, and total value. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document for sea or air freight. 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 importing country's customs authority. 5. Import Declaration: A formal declaration to customs authorities. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional certifications or compliance documents related to textile composition, safety standards, or environmental regulations might be necessary.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 5516.23?
Several trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 5516.23. Key agreements include: 1. USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): Provides preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada and Mexico into the United States. 2. EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement: Affects imports between the European Union and the United Kingdom. 3. Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP): Offers reduced duties for member countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, and others. 4. Bilateral FTAs: Many countries have individual Free Trade Agreements (e.g., US-Korea FTA, US-Chile FTA, EU-Canada CETA) that grant preferential access. Importers must ensure they have a valid Certificate of Origin and that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to benefit from these reduced or zero duty rates.