HS 551693 Of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those of yarns of different colours, enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 8.5% ad valorem, though preferential rates may apply for goods originating from certain Free Trade Agreement partner countries, some of which are duty-free. This classification applies to fabrics where the constituent yarns are of different colours, creating a patterned or mixed-colour effect. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to the specific colour composition of the yarns is crucial for accurate classification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516930000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516930000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516930090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55169300 | 8.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5516930010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516930020 | — | — | ["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 5516.93?
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 551693 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those made from yarns of different colours, as per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes fabrics where the yarns used in the warp and weft are of distinct, pre-determined colours, creating a patterned or multi-hued effect. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the defining characteristic is the use of differently coloured yarns, not the method of dyeing the fabric after weaving.
What falls outside HS 551693?
The following products are excluded from HS 551693: woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres that are dyed after weaving, printed, or made from yarns of the same colour. For instance, a plain blue fabric woven from blue yarns would not fall under this subheading. Similarly, fabrics where the colour effect is achieved through printing on a single-coloured fabric, or those made from undyed yarns that are subsequently dyed as a whole piece, are classified elsewhere, typically under HS 5516.11 to 5516.44, depending on the specific characteristics.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551693?
A common error is misinterpreting "yarns of different colours" to include fabrics that are dyed after weaving or printed. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a fabric is dyed after weaving, it is typically classified under a different subheading within 5516, even if the yarns themselves were originally of different colours. Importers must verify the manufacturing process and the point at which colour is introduced.
How should importers classify products under HS 551693?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551693 involves a detailed examination of the fabric's construction and the origin of its colour. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain whether the colour is inherent in the yarns used (i.e., yarns of different colours woven together) or if the fabric was dyed or printed post-weaving. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551693?
A bolt of 100% polyester woven fabric, weighing 50 kilograms, with yarns of different colours, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5516.93.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551693?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551693, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free rates for qualifying goods from designated developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the primary classification criteria for HS code 551693, 'Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, of yarns of different colours'?
HS code 551693 specifically covers woven fabrics made from synthetic staple fibers where the yarns used in the fabric's construction are of different colors. This means the color variation must originate from the yarns themselves, not from printing or other finishing processes applied after weaving. The fabric must be composed primarily of synthetic staple fibers (e.g., polyester staple, nylon staple). Classification relies on the fiber content and the characteristic of using yarns of different colors.
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551693 in major markets like the US, EU, and UK?
Duty rates for HS code 551693 can vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 8.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, the rate is also often around 8.00% ad valorem, accessible via the TARIC system. The UK Trade Tariff usually shows a similar rate, around 8.00% ad valorem. Always verify the specific rate for your destination country and the most current tariff schedule, as rates can change.
How are preferential duty rates applied to HS code 551693 under trade agreements?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry for goods meeting specific rules of origin. For HS code 551693, countries like 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 offer 'Free' entry under their respective free trade agreements (FTAs). To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid certificate of origin and ensure the goods meet the FTA's rules of origin requirements.
Can you provide a concrete example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 551693?
Let's assume an importer brings 1,000 kilograms of fabric classified under HS code 551693 into the United States, with an invoice value of $5,000 USD. If the MFN duty rate is 8.00% ad valorem, the calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. Duty = $5,000 USD × 8.00% = $400 USD. In this scenario, the importer would owe $400 USD in customs duties. Some countries may also apply additional duties or taxes (e.g., VAT in the EU/UK) based on the declared value and applicable rates.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 551693?
Standard import documentation for HS code 551693 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to ensure correct classification and duty assessment, the invoice should clearly state that the fabric is made of 'synthetic staple fibers' and that the 'yarns are of different colors'. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin specific to that agreement is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide fiber content declarations or lab test results if requested by customs authorities to verify the classification.