HS 570321 Of nylon or other polyamides

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5703.21 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the importing country has trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, rates can be as low as Free (e.g., from Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Malaysia, Oman, Peru, Singapore, and others). Other preferential rates might apply, such as 6.7% or even higher rates like 60% for specific origins or under certain trade measures. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the rules of origin for any claimed preferential treatment. Sources like the USITC, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff provide detailed rate breakdowns.

HS code 5703.21 specifically covers carpets and other textile floor coverings, tufted or not, including 'made up' versions, where the pile or loops are formed by cutting or not cutting, and the primary material of the pile or loops is nylon or other polyamides. This classification hinges on the fiber content of the pile or surface loops. The material must be predominantly nylon or polyamide. Other textile floor coverings not meeting these pile/loop criteria or made from different fibers (e.g., wool, cotton, synthetic fibers other than nylon) would be classified under different subheadings within HS 5703 or other chapters.

Standard import documentation for HS code 5703.21 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin, compliant with the specific requirements of the trade agreement, is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical data sheets that confirm the fiber content (nylon or polyamide) of the floor covering, especially if requested by customs authorities for verification. Compliance with any specific import regulations of the destination country, such as labeling requirements, is also essential.

The import duty for HS code 5703.21 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the declared customs value of a shipment of nylon carpets is $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 8.00% of $10,000 USD = $800 USD. In some cases, duties might also be based on weight or other units, but ad valorem is most common for this code. If a preferential rate of Free applies, the duty would be $0 USD. Always ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation).

Several trade agreements can provide reduced or free duty rates for HS code 5703.21, depending on the importing country. For imports into the United States, agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) or agreements with countries such as Australia, Chile, and Singapore can offer preferential treatment. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like South Korea or Canada might apply. The UK benefits from its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers must verify if the specific goods originate from a country party to an applicable trade agreement and meet the associated rules of origin to qualify for these reduced rates. Consulting the tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Integrated Online Tariff) is essential for identifying applicable agreements and their specific provisions.