About HS Code 550690
This "not elsewhere specified" (n.e.c.) category within heading 5506 covers all other types of synthetic staple fibres that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, but are not specifically classified under nylon, polyester, acrylic, modacrylic, or polypropylene. This code is crucial for emerging and specialty synthetic fibres that offer unique performance characteristics. Importers are often niche textile manufacturers, innovators in technical textiles, or companies seeking advanced material properties for specific applications. Exporters are typically specialized chemical companies or research-driven fibre producers. Key things to know include the specific polymer composition (e.g., elastomeric, high-performance polymers), fibre denier, staple length, and unique functional properties such as extreme heat resistance, chemical inertness, or advanced moisture management. This category allows for the trade of cutting-edge synthetic fibres that cater to highly specialized industrial, medical, or protective textile markets.
Products Under This Code
Spandex staple fibre (processed), Aramid staple fibre (carded), Carbon fibre staple (short cut, processed), Polyethylene staple fibre (processed), Polyurethane staple fibre (processed), PEEK staple fibre (processed), High-performance synthetic blend fibre (processed)
Real World Examples
Lycra (spandex fibre), Kevlar (aramid fibre), Nomex (aramid fibre), Dyneema (polyethylene fibre)
Common Misclassification
This code is often confused with other specific synthetic fibre codes (e.g., 550610-550640) if the fibre type is not clearly identified, or with 550390 (unprocessed other synthetic fibres), but the distinction is both the specific, less common synthetic polymer and the "carded, combed or otherwise processed" stage.
Products Classified Under 5506.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.
Trade Overview
Countries with advanced manufacturing and research capabilities, such as Germany, Japan, and the USA, are often both importers and exporters of these specialized fibres.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 550690?
HS code 550690 covers: Fibres; synthetic staple fibres, n.e.c. in heading no. 5506, carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. This "not elsewhere specified" (n.e.c.) category within heading 5506 covers all other types of synthetic staple fibres that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, but are not specifically classified under nylon, polyester, acrylic, modacrylic, or polypropylene. This code is crucial for emerging and specialty synthetic fibres that offer unique performance characteristics. Importers are often niche textile manufacturers, innovators in technical textiles, or companies seeking advanced material properties for specific applications. Exporters are typically specialized chemical companies or research-driven fibre producers. Key things to know include the specific polymer composition (e.g., elastomeric, high-performance polymers), fibre denier, staple length, and unique functional properties such as extreme heat resistance, chemical inertness, or advanced moisture management. This category allows for the trade of cutting-edge synthetic fibres that cater to highly specialized industrial, medical, or protective textile markets.
What products fall under HS code 550690?
Spandex staple fibre (processed), Aramid staple fibre (carded), Carbon fibre staple (short cut, processed), Polyethylene staple fibre (processed), Polyurethane staple fibre (processed), PEEK staple fibre (processed), High-performance synthetic blend fibre (processed)
What are common misclassifications for HS code 550690?
This code is often confused with other specific synthetic fibre codes (e.g., 550610-550640) if the fibre type is not clearly identified, or with 550390 (unprocessed other synthetic fibres), but the distinction is both the specific, less common synthetic polymer and the "carded, combed or otherwise processed" stage.
How is HS code 550690 structured?
HS code 550690 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (06) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.