HS 551694 Printed
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of artificial staple fibres, printed, imported under HS 5516.94 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at a range of rates, with the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate often being 12% ad valorem, though specific preferential agreements can result in duty-free entry. This classification specifically applies to fabrics made from artificial staple fibres that have undergone a printing process. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major markets, necessitating careful review of applicable preferential trade agreements for the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification for compliance and cost optimization.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516940000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516940000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55169400 | 12% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5516940050 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516940060 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516940070 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516940020 | — | — | ["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 5516.94?
Imports of Printed 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 551694 cover?
This subheading covers fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, not carded or combed, of a width not exceeding 30 cm, printed. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to textiles where the printing process imparts a pattern or design onto the fabric surface. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the key characteristic is the presence of printed designs, distinguishing them from plain-dyed or patterned-in-the-weave fabrics.
What falls outside HS 551694?
The following products are excluded from HS 551694: fabrics of synthetic staple fibres that are not printed, including those that are dyed, bleached, or have patterns woven into the fabric itself. Also excluded are fabrics exceeding 30 cm in width, regardless of whether they are printed, and fabrics made from other materials such as natural fibres or artificial staple fibres. For instance, printed cotton fabrics would fall under Chapter 52, and printed silk fabrics under Chapter 50.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551694?
A common error is misinterpreting the definition of "printed" versus other finishing processes. For example, fabrics that are merely dyed or have a textured surface created through embossing might be mistakenly classified here. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify fabrics based on their end-use rather than their material composition and construction.
How should importers classify products under HS 551694?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551694 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm that the fabric is composed of synthetic staple fibres. Second, ascertain that the fabric's width does not exceed 30 cm. Third, verify that the fabric has undergone a printing process to impart a design. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific product's technical specifications and, if necessary, obtain a ruling from customs authorities to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551694?
A bolt of printed polyester staple fibre fabric, measuring 25 cm in width and weighing 10 kilograms, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 3.5% of $500 USD = $17.50. However, if the fabric were subject to a specific duty based on weight, for example, $3.50 per kilogram, the duty would be $3.50/kg * 10 kg = $35.00. This example uses a hypothetical specific duty rate for illustrative purposes, as actual rates vary and are published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551694?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551694, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating fabrics from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. While not directly applicable to this specific HS code for all countries, broader GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) schemes may offer reduced rates for certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. For EU trade, the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement could offer preferential rates for originating goods, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 5516.94, covering "other woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, printed"?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.94 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the rate is Free. Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable based on the country of origin and any relevant trade agreements. For detailed information, consult the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
How is the import duty for HS 5516.94 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 5516.94 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the declared value of a shipment of printed synthetic staple fibre fabric is $10,000, the import duty would be $10,000 \times 0.08 = $800. Always ensure accurate valuation and classification to avoid penalties.
What criteria determine if a woven fabric of synthetic staple fibres falls under HS code 5516.94 as "printed"?
HS code 5516.94 specifically applies to woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres that have undergone a printing process. This means the fabric's surface has been colored in patterns by applying ink or dye in a specific design. The printing must be the final treatment that gives the fabric its characteristic appearance. If the fabric is dyed but not printed, or if it is a blend where synthetic staple fibres are not the predominant component by weight, it would be classified under a different HS code. Refer to Chapter 55 notes and Explanatory Notes from the World Customs Organization (WCO) for detailed classification guidelines.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 5516.94 imports into the United States?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 5516.94. For example, goods originating from 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 often benefit from Free or reduced duty rates under their respective Free Trade Agreements with the US. Importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin to claim these preferential rates. Consult the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for a comprehensive list of eligible countries and their specific tariff treatment.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 5516.94?
When importing goods under HS code 5516.94, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under any trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. This document must be issued by the exporting country's competent authority or exporter and certify that the goods meet the rules of origin requirements of the applicable trade agreement. Customs brokers should ensure all documentation is accurate and complete to facilitate smooth clearance and avoid delays or penalties.