HS 611522 Of synthetic fibres, measuring per single yarn 67 decitex or more

HS code 611522, covering women's or girls' stockings, socks and other hosiery, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibres, measuring per single yarn 67 decitex or more, faces a range of duty rates. The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate can be around 12.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates significantly reduce or eliminate duties under various trade agreements. For example, 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 duty-free entry (Free). Importers should always verify the specific preferential rate applicable based on the country of origin and the relevant trade agreement, as rates like 72% or 14.9% might apply to specific origins not covered by preferential agreements or for goods not meeting specific origin criteria.

The primary classification criteria for HS code 611522 are: 1. Product Type: The item must be hosiery (stockings, socks, etc.). 2. Construction: It must be knitted or crocheted. 3. Material: The hosiery must be made of synthetic fibres. 4. Yarn Measurement: Crucially, the yarn used must measure 67 decitex or more per single yarn. Decitex (dtex) is a measure of linear mass density of fibres, where 1 dtex is 1 gram per 10,000 meters. Exceeding this threshold is a defining characteristic of this specific code. Failure to meet any of these criteria could lead to misclassification.

The duty calculation for HS code 611522 is typically based on the ad valorem (AV) system, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 12.00% ad valorem, and an importer declares a shipment of hosiery falling under this code with a customs value of $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 12.00% = $1,200 USD. Some countries might also have specific duties based on weight or quantity, but ad valorem is most common for this category. Always confirm the applicable duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the relevant customs authority or tariff database.

Importing goods classified under HS code 611522 generally requires standard international trade documentation. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as proof of shipment. To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) issued by the exporting country's competent authority or a declaration of origin from the exporter, compliant with the specific trade agreement's rules, is essential. Importers should also be prepared for potential requests for yarn composition analysis or proof of yarn decitex measurement if classification is questioned.

Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 611522. For example, the United States has agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) and agreements with countries such as Colombia, Peru, and Australia. The European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and its various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide also provide preferential access. The UK has its own set of FTAs post-Brexit. The general outcome of these agreements is a reduction or elimination of the standard MFN duty rate, often resulting in duty-free entry (0%) for goods originating from partner countries that meet the agreement's rules of origin. Importers must ensure their goods meet these specific rules of origin to benefit from these reduced rates.