HS 590110 Textile fabrics coated with gum or amylaceous substances, of a kind used for the outer covers of books or the like
Quick Answer: Textile fabrics coated with gum or amylaceous substances, of a kind used for the outer covers of books or the like, imported under HS 590110 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at a range of rates including 35% and 4.1%, with certain trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers materials like bookbinding cloth, which are treated with starches or gums to provide stiffness and a surface suitable for covering books, albums, or similar items. Importers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise duty rates and consider potential preferential trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5901100000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5901100000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5901102000 | 4.1% | Free (15 programs) | ["m<sup>2</sup>","<u>kg</u>"] |
| 590110 | — | — | — |
| 5901101000 | 7% | Free (14 programs) | ["m<sup>2</sup>","<u>kg</u>"] |
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 5901.10?
Imports of Textile fabrics coated with gum or amylaceous substances, of a kind used for the outer covers of books or the like 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 13 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 590110 cover?
This subheading covers textile fabrics that have been coated with gum or amylaceous substances, specifically those intended for use as outer covers for books or similar items. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these materials are characterized by their impregnation or coating, which imparts rigidity and durability suitable for binding and cover applications. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC database confirm that the key criterion is the intended end-use for bookbinding or related protective covering purposes.
What falls outside HS 590110?
The following products are excluded from HS 590110: textile fabrics coated with gum or amylaceous substances that are not specifically intended for book covers, such as those used for general upholstery, industrial applications, or as decorative materials. For instance, coated fabrics for raincoats (typically chapter 63), or coated fabrics for technical uses like tarpaulins (often chapter 39 or 63 depending on the coating material) would be classified elsewhere. Similarly, plain textile fabrics without the specific gum or amylaceous coating for bookbinding purposes are not included.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 590110?
A common error is misclassifying textile fabrics that are coated with other substances, such as plastics or rubber, under this subheading. General Interpretive Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, which addresses goods consisting of different materials or components, is often relevant. If the gum or amylaceous coating is not the predominant characteristic or if the fabric is intended for a different end-use than book covers, it should be classified under a more appropriate heading, such as those for plastic-coated fabrics (Chapter 39) or other specialized textile articles.
How should importers classify products under HS 590110?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 590110 involves a thorough examination of the material's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the textile fabric is indeed coated with gum or amylaceous substances and that its primary purpose is for the outer covers of books or similar items. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and cross-referencing with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is crucial to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 590110?
A shipment of 1,000 square meters of bookbinding cloth, weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for subheading 590110.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 590110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 590110, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods can achieve a duty rate of Free. For example, textile fabrics originating from Mexico or Canada would benefit from this preferential rate. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting the requirements of the agreement must be provided to customs authorities.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 590110, and how are they applied?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 590110, 'Textile fabrics coated with gum or amylaceous substances, of a kind used for the outer covers of books or the like,' can vary. For example, the USITC (United States International Trade Commission) may list rates such as 6.00% or 6.50% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff will specify their respective rates. The duty is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if goods valued at $10,000 are imported with a 6.00% ad valorem duty, the duty amount would be $10,000 * 0.06 = $600.
Which countries benefit from preferential duty rates under HS 590110, and what is the process to claim them?
Several countries may benefit from preferential duty rates, often listed as 'Free' or significantly reduced rates under various trade agreements. Examples include Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG), among others, depending on the importing country's specific trade pacts. To claim these rates, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or other required documentation as stipulated by the relevant trade agreement, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for textile fabrics under HS 590110?
The primary classification criterion for HS 590110 is that the textile fabric must be coated with gum or amylaceous substances (starches or similar substances). Furthermore, the fabric must be of a kind specifically used for the outer covers of books, bookbinding, or similar applications. This means the coating and the fabric's characteristics should lend themselves to durability, printability, and the structural integrity required for book covers.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and packing list for importing goods under HS 590110?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, importing goods under HS 590110 may require additional documentation to substantiate the classification and any claimed preferential duty rates. This could include a technical data sheet or manufacturer's declaration confirming the coating material (gum or amylaceous substance) and the intended use of the fabric for book covers or similar items. If claiming preferential treatment, a valid Certificate of Origin is essential.
How does the specific type of coating or the fabric's end-use influence the HS 590110 classification?
The type of coating is critical; it must be gum or an amylaceous substance. Fabrics coated with plastics, rubber, or other materials generally fall under different HS codes. Equally important is the intended end-use. While the code specifies 'for the outer covers of books or the like,' if the fabric is coated with these substances but intended for a different application (e.g., industrial tarpaulins, upholstery), it would be classified elsewhere. Importers should be prepared to demonstrate the intended use through product specifications or marketing materials.