HS Code 51.13 – Woven fabrics of coarse animal hair or of horsehair

HS code 5113 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Woven fabrics of coarse animal hair or of horsehair. Heading 5113 of the Harmonized System specifically covers 'Woven fabrics of coarse animal hair or of horsehair.' This classification is essential for distinguishing fabrics made from these specialized, often durable and stiff, fibers from more common wool or fine animal hair fabrics. Coarse animal hair typically includes fibers from animals such as common goats (not cashmere or mohair), camels, yaks, llamas, and alpacas when their hair is not considered 'fine.' Horsehair, known for its unique stiffness, resilience, and natural sheen, is a key component under this heading. These fabrics possess distinct textural and functional properties, often characterized by their strength, durability, and sometimes a coarse hand-feel. They are typically used in specialized applications where these characteristics are advantageous, such as upholstery, interlinings, stiffening materials, or traditional artisan products. This classification is vital for accurate customs duties, trade statistics, and compliance with specific regulations related to these unique animal fibers. Historically, such fabrics have served niche markets, reflecting their specialized uses and the unique properties derived from their fiber source. This heading is part of Chapter 51, which encompasses 'Wool, fine or coarse animal hair; horsehair yarn and woven fabric,' thus precisely situating these specialized fabrics within the broader textile framework.

Woven fabric of coarse goat hair, Horsehair upholstery fabric, Yak hair woven fabric for durable goods, Llama coarse hair woven fabric, Camel coarse hair woven fabric for industrial use, Horsehair fabric for interlinings, Coarse angora rabbit hair woven fabric, Horsehair fabric for stiffening garments, Blended coarse animal hair and horsehair woven fabric, Woven fabric of coarse animal hair for carpet manufacturing, Horsehair fabric for furniture frames, Coarse goat hair fabric for traditional rugs, Horsehair fabric for decorative screens, Woven fabric of coarse animal hair for military applications, Horsehair fabric for hat construction, Coarse alpaca hair woven fabric for specialized outerwear, Blended coarse animal hair fabric for robust bags, Horsehair fabric for violin bow grips, Coarse animal hair fabric for sound insulation, Horsehair fabric for art installations, Woven fabric of coarse animal hair for automotive interiors, Horsehair fabric for traditional horse tack, Coarse animal hair fabric for durable workwear, Horsehair fabric for shoe stiffeners, Coarse camel hair fabric for heavy-duty tents

Common misclassifications for HS 5113 involve confusing these fabrics with woven fabrics of fine animal hair (e.g., cashmere, mohair, under 5111 or 5112) or even wool fabrics (5111 or 5112). The key is the 'coarse' nature of the animal hair, which requires careful fiber analysis. Another mistake is classifying fabrics made from synthetic coarse fibers (e.g., polypropylene, nylon, under Chapter 55) or vegetable fibers (e.g., jute, sisal, under Chapter 53) under this heading, due to similar texture or intended use. Furthermore, non-woven materials or felts (Chapter 59) made from coarse animal hair are sometimes incorrectly classified here, overlooking the 'woven' requirement. Accurate classification hinges on precise identification of the fiber type and the fabric's construction method.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5113 in UN Comtrade data were Türkiye ($2.3M, 32% of world exports), China ($2.2M) and Italy ($659K). World exports came to about $7.3M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 5113 in UN Comtrade data were Saudi Arabia ($2.1M, 26% of world imports), Italy ($1.8M) and the United Kingdom ($398K). World imports came to about $8.0M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 5113 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 51 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (51) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (13) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.