HS Code 55.12 – Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres

HS code 5512 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres. Heading 5512 encompasses woven fabrics composed predominantly of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing 85% or more by weight of such fibres. This classification is crucial for international trade as it defines a broad category of textiles known for their durability, versatility, and often, cost-effectiveness. Synthetic staple fibres, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, are short, discontinuous fibres that are spun into yarn, mimicking the feel and processing of natural fibres like cotton or wool. The '85% or more' threshold establishes a clear boundary, ensuring that fabrics primarily deriving their characteristics from these man-made components are classified here. Key sub-categories often differentiate by the specific synthetic fibre (e.g., polyester, nylon), weave type (plain, twill, satin), or specific end-use (e.g., upholstery, technical textiles). For trade compliance professionals, accurate classification under 5512 is vital for determining applicable tariffs, quotas, and trade agreement eligibility, preventing costly delays or penalties. Historically, the rise of synthetic fibres in the mid-20th century revolutionized the textile industry, offering properties like wrinkle resistance, quick-drying, and strength, making these fabrics indispensable across apparel, home furnishings, and industrial applications. This heading is a cornerstone of Chapter 55, which focuses entirely on man-made staple fibres, illustrating their significance as raw materials for a vast array of textile products.

100% polyester woven suiting fabric, high-strength nylon staple fibre canvas, acrylic staple fibre blanket fabric, synthetic staple fibre lining material, polyester staple fibre upholstery fabric, durable nylon outdoor apparel fabric, automotive interior fabric (polyester staple), technical filter fabric (polypropylene staple), high-tenacity industrial woven fabric, polyester-based uniform fabric, synthetic staple fibre workwear fabric, faux fur base fabric (acrylic staple), waterproof tent fabric (polyester staple), luggage fabric (nylon staple), flag and banner fabric (polyester staple), medical gown fabric (polypropylene staple), decorative curtain fabric (polyester staple), shoe lining fabric (nylon staple), sportswear base fabric (polyester staple), high-performance geotextile base fabric, synthetic staple fibre insulation fabric, abrasion-resistant furniture fabric, sound-absorbing automotive textile, synthetic staple fibre reinforcement fabric.

Common misclassifications for Heading 5512 often arise from confusion with fabrics made of synthetic *filament* yarns (e.g., 5407), where the key distinction is staple (short, spun) versus filament (continuous) fibres. Another frequent error is confusing it with fabrics containing less than 85% synthetic staple fibres, particularly those mixed with cotton (5513 or 5514), where the percentage composition is critical. Additionally, if the fabric has been coated, impregnated, or laminated, it might fall under Chapter 59 (e.g., 5903 or 5906), as these processes fundamentally alter the fabric's character. Careful analysis of fibre type, percentage, and any post-weaving treatments is essential.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5512 in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.3B, 48% of world exports), the United States ($194M) and Spain ($141M). World exports came to about $2.7B, 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 5512 in UN Comtrade data were Morocco ($603M, 17% of world imports), Vietnam (about $206M) and Egypt ($175M). World imports came to about $3.5B, 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 5512 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (12) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.