About HS Code 550490
This code encompasses raw, unprocessed artificial staple fibres, excluding those made from viscose, that are not yet prepared for spinning into yarn. These are foundational materials in the textile industry, serving as intermediates for a vast array of products. Importers are typically large textile mills, yarn manufacturers, and non-woven fabric producers in countries with significant manufacturing capabilities. Exporters are often chemical companies or fibre producers that specialize in synthetic fibre production. Key things to know include the importance of fibre denier, length, and crimp, as these properties dictate the end-use applications, from apparel and home furnishings to industrial textiles and filtration media. The global trade in these fibres is driven by demand for cost-effective and performance-enhanced alternatives to natural fibres, with a strong focus on sustainability and recyclability in modern production. The market is highly competitive, with technological advancements constantly introducing new fibre types and improved characteristics.
Products Under This Code
Acetate staple fibres, Cupro staple fibres, Modal staple fibres (non-viscose), Lyocell staple fibres (non-viscose), Acrylic staple fibres (unprocessed), Modacrylic staple fibres (unprocessed), Polypropylene staple fibres (unprocessed)
Real World Examples
Tencel Lyocell (raw fibre), Acetate fibre (raw), Cupro fibre (raw), Modal fibre (raw)
Common Misclassification
This code is often confused with 550390 (synthetic staple fibres, not carded) or 550410 (viscose staple fibres, not carded) due to the similar "not carded" processing stage, but the distinction lies in the fibre's origin (artificial vs. synthetic) and specific type (non-viscose).
Industry
This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.
Trade Overview
Major importers include China, India, and Turkey, while top exporters are often found in East Asia and Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 550490?
HS code 550490 covers: Fibres; artificial staple fibres, other than of viscose, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. This code encompasses raw, unprocessed artificial staple fibres, excluding those made from viscose, that are not yet prepared for spinning into yarn. These are foundational materials in the textile industry, serving as intermediates for a vast array of products. Importers are typically large textile mills, yarn manufacturers, and non-woven fabric producers in countries with significant manufacturing capabilities. Exporters are often chemical companies or fibre producers that specialize in synthetic fibre production. Key things to know include the importance of fibre denier, length, and crimp, as these properties dictate the end-use applications, from apparel and home furnishings to industrial textiles and filtration media. The global trade in these fibres is driven by demand for cost-effective and performance-enhanced alternatives to natural fibres, with a strong focus on sustainability and recyclability in modern production. The market is highly competitive, with technological advancements constantly introducing new fibre types and improved characteristics.
What products fall under HS code 550490?
Acetate staple fibres, Cupro staple fibres, Modal staple fibres (non-viscose), Lyocell staple fibres (non-viscose), Acrylic staple fibres (unprocessed), Modacrylic staple fibres (unprocessed), Polypropylene staple fibres (unprocessed)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 550490?
This code is often confused with 550390 (synthetic staple fibres, not carded) or 550410 (viscose staple fibres, not carded) due to the similar "not carded" processing stage, but the distinction lies in the fibre's origin (artificial vs. synthetic) and specific type (non-viscose).
How is HS code 550490 structured?
HS code 550490 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.