HS Code Subheading

Flax; raw or retted, but not spun

5301.10 Subheading
Section XI — Textiles and textile articles

About HS Code 530110

This HS code covers flax in its most primary forms: raw, straight from the field, or after retting. Retting is a crucial natural process where moisture and microbes break down the pectin binding the fibers to the woody stalk, making the fibers easier to extract. This stage represents the very beginning of the flax processing chain. Major importers are typically textile mills or specialized fiber processors in countries with established linen industries, while exporters are often agricultural nations where flax is cultivated. Key things to know include the retting method (dew retting, water retting) which impacts fiber quality, and the importance of moisture content for storage and transport. This raw material is the foundation for all subsequent flax products, from fine linen to industrial composites.

Products Under This Code

Raw flax stalks, retted flax bundles, flax straw, unprocessed flax fiber, field-retted flax, water-retted flax

Real World Examples

Linum usitatissimum (botanical name), French dew-retted flax, Belgian water-retted flax, Canadian flax straw

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 530121 (broken or scutched flax) if some initial mechanical separation has occurred, or 530129 (hackled flax) if the fibers are more refined. The key is the minimal processing beyond retting.

Products Classified Under 5301.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.

Trade Overview

France, Belgium, and the Netherlands are major producers and exporters; China, India, and Italy are significant importers for textile production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 530110?

HS code 530110 covers: Flax; raw or retted, but not spun. This HS code covers flax in its most primary forms: raw, straight from the field, or after retting. Retting is a crucial natural process where moisture and microbes break down the pectin binding the fibers to the woody stalk, making the fibers easier to extract. This stage represents the very beginning of the flax processing chain. Major importers are typically textile mills or specialized fiber processors in countries with established linen industries, while exporters are often agricultural nations where flax is cultivated. Key things to know include the retting method (dew retting, water retting) which impacts fiber quality, and the importance of moisture content for storage and transport. This raw material is the foundation for all subsequent flax products, from fine linen to industrial composites.

What products fall under HS code 530110?

Raw flax stalks, retted flax bundles, flax straw, unprocessed flax fiber, field-retted flax, water-retted flax

What are common misclassifications for HS code 530110?

This code is often confused with 530121 (broken or scutched flax) if some initial mechanical separation has occurred, or 530129 (hackled flax) if the fibers are more refined. The key is the minimal processing beyond retting.

How is HS code 530110 structured?

HS code 530110 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (53) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.