HS Code 56 – Wadding, felt and nonwovens, special yarns; twine, cordage, ropes and cables and articles thereof

HS code 56 is a 2-digit chapter in the Harmonized System that covers: Wadding, felt and nonwovens, special yarns; twine, cordage, ropes and cables and articles thereof. Chapter 56 of the Harmonized System (HS) provides a comprehensive classification for "Wadding, felt and nonwovens; special yarns; twine, cordage, ropes and cables and articles thereof." This chapter is crucial for international trade as it covers a diverse range of textile materials and basic articles that are not typically produced by traditional weaving or knitting methods. Its scope primarily encompasses textile products formed by processes such as bonding, felting, or by assembling fibers into wadding, as well as specific types of yarns and cordage distinguished by their construction. Key sub-categories within this chapter include wadding (e.g., cotton, synthetic), felt (pressed textile fibers), and nonwovens (textile fabrics made by bonding fibers, often used in hygiene, medical, and industrial applications). It also covers special yarns like chenille yarn, loop wale-yarn, gimped yarn, and braided textile materials. Furthermore, the chapter details twine, cordage, ropes, and cables, whether of natural or synthetic fibers, along with articles made from these materials, such as knotted netting and fishing nets. The boundaries of this classification are vital; it distinguishes these materials from woven fabrics (Chapters 50-55) and knitted or crocheted fabrics (Chapter 60), focusing on their unique manufacturing processes and structural characteristics. Correct classification under Chapter 56 is critical for trade compliance, impacting duties, import restrictions, product safety standards, and eligibility for preferential trade agreements, particularly given the increasing use of advanced nonwovens and technical textiles in modern industries. Historically, cordage and ropes have been fundamental for maritime and agricultural uses, while nonwovens represent a significant modern advancement in textile technology.

Cotton wadding, polyester wadding, medical gauze pads (nonwoven), wool felt sheets, synthetic needle-punched nonwoven fabric, spunbond nonwoven fabric, meltblown nonwoven fabric, polypropylene geotextile fabrics, disposable cleaning wipes (nonwoven), nonwoven garment interlining, chenille yarn, gimped textile yarn, braided textile yarn, sisal twine, nylon fishing rope, high-strength synthetic cargo nets, sports netting (e.g., soccer goals), knotted netting of textile materials, macrame plant hangers (of twine), synthetic marine cables, nonwoven polishing cloths, acoustic insulation felt panels, protective packaging wadding, polyester industrial felt, polypropylene baler twine.

Common misclassification errors in Chapter 56 often arise from confusing nonwovens (HS 56.03) with woven fabrics (Chapters 50-55) or knitted fabrics (Chapter 60). The key distinction lies in the manufacturing process: nonwovens are bonded, felted, or entangled, not interlaced like woven fabrics or looped like knitted fabrics. Another frequent mistake is classifying finished articles made of felt or nonwovens under Chapter 56, instead of their more specific chapters. For instance, a disposable surgical gown made from nonwoven fabric should generally be classified under Chapter 62 (Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted), not as a nonwoven fabric itself. Similarly, articles like certain floor coverings (Chapter 57), specific made-up textile articles (Chapter 63), or even footwear components (Chapter 64) made from felt or nonwovens can be incorrectly placed here. Always consider the degree of completion and the article's end-use.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 56 in UN Comtrade data were China ($8.3B, 26% of world exports), Germany ($3.0B) and the United States ($2.4B). World exports came to about $31.5B, 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.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 56 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($3.0B, 10.0% of world imports), Germany ($2.0B) and Mexico ($1.3B). World imports came to about $30.2B, 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 56 is a 2-digit chapter code in the Harmonized System maintained by the World Customs Organization. It represents a broad category of goods and contains multiple 4-digit headings and 6-digit subheadings for more specific classifications.