HS 551634 Printed

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.34 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available 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 receive duty-free treatment. It is crucial to verify the specific origin of the goods and the applicable FTA to determine the correct preferential rate. Always consult the latest tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, for the most up-to-date rates.

The duty for HS code 5516.34 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import 1,000 kilograms of fabric valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $5,000 USD × 8.00% = $400 USD. Some specific classifications or countries might have additional specific duties (e.g., per kilogram) or combined rates, as indicated by rates like '48.5¢/kg + 68.5%'. In such cases, both the ad valorem and specific duty components would apply. Always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise calculation method.

HS code 5516.34 specifically covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibers that are 'printed'. The primary classification criteria are: 1. Material Composition: The fabric must be made predominantly from synthetic staple fibers (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic staple fibers). 2. Weave Type: It must be a woven fabric. 3. Printing: The fabric must have undergone a printing process, which involves applying colorants in patterns or designs. This distinguishes it from dyed or otherwise colored fabrics. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between printed, dyed, and colored fabrics.

When importing goods under HS code 5516.34, standard import documentation is required, which typically includes: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, quantity, description of goods, unit price, and total value. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: The transport document. 4. Certificate of Origin: Essential for claiming preferential duty rates under FTAs. This document must certify that the goods originate from the country claiming preferential treatment. 5. Import Declaration: Filed with customs authorities. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional documents like textile declarations or specific import permits might be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country.

Several trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 5516.34. Key agreements include those between the United States and countries like South Korea (US-Korea Free Trade Agreement), Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), and Peru (PE), which often provide for duty-free or reduced-duty entry for qualifying goods. Similarly, the European Union has agreements with many countries (e.g., Turkey, Morocco, Egypt) that can affect duty rates under the EU TARIC system. The UK also has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers should actively investigate agreements between the exporting and importing countries, ensuring compliance with rules of origin to benefit from these preferential rates.