HS 551643 Of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of artificial staple fibres, specifically those of different colours, imported under HS 551643 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US with a range of rates, including free and a high 81% ad valorem, depending on specific product details. This classification applies to woven fabrics made from artificial staple fibres where the yarns used to create the fabric are of different colours. Importers should carefully review the specific US tariff subheadings for precise duty application. According to CustomTariffs data, the significant disparity in US rates highlights the importance of accurate classification and potential for substantial duty implications.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516430000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516430000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516430010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516430035 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516430080 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55164300 | Free | — | — |
| 5516430015 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 551643 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, not of a width not exceeding 30 cm, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, and of yarns of different colours. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to fabrics where the constituent yarns are dyed to different colours prior to weaving, resulting in a patterned effect. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the visual appearance created by the combination of differently coloured yarns in the fabric construction.
What falls outside HS 551643?
The following products are excluded from HS 551643: fabrics woven from yarns of a single colour, fabrics where the colour is imparted after weaving (e.g., printed fabrics), fabrics containing less than 85% by weight of synthetic staple fibres, or fabrics made from other materials such as artificial staple fibres or natural fibres. For instance, a printed polyester fabric would be classified under a different subheading, and a plain-coloured woven fabric of synthetic staple fibres would also fall outside this specific code.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551643?
A common error is misinterpreting "yarns of different colours" to include fabrics that are printed or piece-dyed after weaving. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Therefore, the colour distinction must originate from the yarns themselves before the weaving process. Importers may also incorrectly classify fabrics with subtle colour variations within the same yarn as "different colours."
How should importers classify products under HS 551643?
The correct procedure for classifying woven fabrics under HS 551643 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm that the fabric is composed of synthetic staple fibres and constitutes at least 85% of the fabric's weight. Second, ascertain that the fabric's width does not exceed 30 cm. Crucially, examine the yarns used in the weaving process to ensure they are of different colours, creating a colour-patterned effect inherent to the yarn combination, not from post-weaving treatments.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551643?
A bolt of woven polyester fabric, weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 30% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5516.43.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551643?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551643, 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. For goods originating from certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the duty rate can also be Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 5516.43, covering woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, of yarns of different colours?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.43 in the United States is 8.00% ad valorem. Preferential rates may apply under Free Trade Agreements. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), the duty rate is Free. Importers should consult the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for the most current and specific rates applicable to their origin country. The duty is calculated based on the declared customs value of the imported goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 5516.43, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 5516.43 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of fabric classified under 5516.43 has a declared customs value of $10,000, and the MFN duty rate is 8.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 \times 0.08 = $800. It is crucial to ensure accurate valuation as it directly impacts the duty amount.
What specific classification criteria distinguish HS code 5516.43 from other woven fabric codes?
HS code 5516.43 specifically covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, characterized by the use of yarns of different colours. The key differentiator is the presence of multiple colours within the yarns used to construct the fabric. This contrasts with codes for fabrics made from single-coloured yarns or those made from continuous synthetic filaments. The composition must be primarily synthetic staple fibres, and the fabric must be woven. Refer to Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System Nomenclature for detailed interpretive notes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 5516.43?
Standard documentation for importing woven fabrics under HS code 5516.43 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates if applicable. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the fabric (e.g., if it contains certain dyes or finishes), additional certifications related to safety or chemical content might be required. Always verify specific import requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 5516.43, and how can importers benefit?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 5516.43. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia, and others, which often provide duty-free entry for qualifying goods. The European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its various Free Trade Agreements also impact duty rates for member states. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid Certificate of Origin. Consulting resources like the EU TARIC database or the UK Integrated Online Tariff can provide specific details on preferential rates.