HS Code 52.11 – Woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing more than 200g/m2

HS code 5211 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing more than 200g/m2. Heading 5211 encompasses woven fabrics of cotton, specifically those containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, and weighing more than 200 g/m². This classification is vital for heavy-duty blended fabrics that combine the aesthetic and comfort of cotton with the strength, durability, and functional properties of synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, or spandex. The 'woven' characteristic is crucial, distinguishing it from knitted or non-woven materials. The 'less than 85% cotton' threshold signifies blends where man-made fibers play a substantial role in enhancing performance, such as increased abrasion resistance, water repellency, or shape retention. The weight threshold (exceeding 200 g/m²) firmly places these fabrics in the heavy-weight category, suitable for durable apparel (e.g., workwear, outerwear), upholstery, and industrial textiles. Sub-categories are typically defined by the specific blend (e.g., cotton-polyester denim, cotton-nylon canvas) and weave structure. Accurate classification under 5211 is paramount for trade compliance, directly impacting duty rates, quotas, and eligibility for preferential trade agreements, given the varying duties often applied to different fiber compositions. As part of Chapter 52 (Cotton) and Section XI (Textiles), this heading provides a precise classification based on material composition, manufacturing method, and density, reflecting the diverse applications of blended fabrics in modern textile industries.

Heavy cotton-polyester blend denim, blended heavy canvas fabric, cotton-nylon duck fabric, blended heavy twill, blended moleskin, blended corduroy (heavy), blended upholstery fabric, blended tent fabric, blended workwear fabric, heavy blended sateen, heavy blended poplin, blended bull denim, blended gabardine, heavy blended oxford, blended mattress ticking, industrial blended cotton fabric, heavy duty blended sheeting, blended tarpaulin fabric, blended rug backing fabric, heavy cotton-spandex stretch denim, cotton-aramid blend protective fabric, cotton-acrylic blend heavy fabric, recycled blended heavy canvas, organic blended heavy twill.

Common misclassification errors for heading 5211 include confusing it with fabrics containing 85% or more cotton (e.g., 5209), or with lighter blended fabrics (e.g., 5210). The key differentiators are the cotton content (less than 85%) and the weight (more than 200 g/m²). Traders frequently err by misjudging the exact fiber composition or incorrectly calculating the fabric's weight per square meter. Another mistake is classifying fabrics with special treatments (e.g., coated, impregnated, laminated) that fundamentally alter their character (Chapter 59), or misidentifying knitted fabrics (Chapter 60) as woven. Accurate laboratory analysis of fiber content and precise weight measurement are crucial.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5211 in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.1B, 64% of world exports), India ($191M) and Pakistan ($170M). World exports came to about $3.2B, 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 5211 in UN Comtrade data were Bangladesh (about $775M, 27% of world imports), Vietnam (about $338M) and Cambodia (about $171M). World imports came to about $2.9B, 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 5211 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 52 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (52) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (11) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.