HS Code Subheading

Fibres; artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate

5502.10 Subheading
Section XI — Textiles and textile articles

About HS Code 550210

This HS code specifically covers artificial filament tow made from cellulose acetate, a semi-synthetic fiber derived from cellulose. This material is highly valued in international trade for its unique properties, including a silky feel, good drape, and excellent dyeability, making it a popular choice for luxury textiles and specialized applications. Major importers are typically countries with established textile and apparel manufacturing industries, particularly those focusing on high-end fashion, linings, and cigarette filters. Exporters are often nations with strong chemical processing capabilities and access to cellulose pulp. The trade in cellulose acetate tow is influenced by environmental regulations, as it is a biodegradable alternative to some fully synthetic fibers, and by demand from the tobacco industry for cigarette filter production. Its versatility also sees it used in non-textile applications, making it a niche but significant commodity in global fiber markets.

Products Under This Code

Cellulose acetate tow for textiles, Cigarette filter tow, Acetate fiber for linings, Acetate tow for nonwovens, Biodegradable textile tow

Real World Examples

Eastman Estron Acetate Tow, Celanese Clarifoil, Daicel Acetate Tow, Mitsubishi Rayon Acetate Tow

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct from other artificial filament tows (550290) which are not cellulose acetate, and from regenerated cellulose fibers like viscose (550410) which have different chemical structures.

Products Classified Under 5502.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.

Trade Overview

China, Indonesia, and Vietnam are major importers, while the USA, Japan, and Germany are key exporters of cellulose acetate tow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 550210?

HS code 550210 covers: Fibres; artificial filament tow of cellulose acetate. This HS code specifically covers artificial filament tow made from cellulose acetate, a semi-synthetic fiber derived from cellulose. This material is highly valued in international trade for its unique properties, including a silky feel, good drape, and excellent dyeability, making it a popular choice for luxury textiles and specialized applications. Major importers are typically countries with established textile and apparel manufacturing industries, particularly those focusing on high-end fashion, linings, and cigarette filters. Exporters are often nations with strong chemical processing capabilities and access to cellulose pulp. The trade in cellulose acetate tow is influenced by environmental regulations, as it is a biodegradable alternative to some fully synthetic fibers, and by demand from the tobacco industry for cigarette filter production. Its versatility also sees it used in non-textile applications, making it a niche but significant commodity in global fiber markets.

What products fall under HS code 550210?

Cellulose acetate tow for textiles, Cigarette filter tow, Acetate fiber for linings, Acetate tow for nonwovens, Biodegradable textile tow

What are common misclassifications for HS code 550210?

This code is distinct from other artificial filament tows (550290) which are not cellulose acetate, and from regenerated cellulose fibers like viscose (550410) which have different chemical structures.

How is HS code 550210 structured?

HS code 550210 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.