HS Code 56.06 – Yarn and strip and the like of heading no. 5404 or 5405, gimped (other than those of heading no. 5606 and gimped horsehair yarn); chenille yarn (including flock chenille yarn); loop wale-yarn

HS code 5606 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Yarn and strip and the like of heading no. 5404 or 5405, gimped (other than those of heading no. 5606 and gimped horsehair yarn); chenille yarn (including flock chenille yarn); loop wale-yarn. Heading 5606 encompasses a specialized category of textile yarns, focusing primarily on 'gimped yarn,' 'chenille yarn,' and 'loop wale-yarn.' Gimped yarn refers to a core yarn around which one or more other yarns are spirally wound, completely covering the core. This construction provides unique decorative or functional properties, differentiating it from simple plied yarns. Chenille yarn, including flock chenille yarn, is characterized by its soft, fuzzy appearance, achieved by cutting woven fabric into narrow strips, with the cut ends forming a pile. Loop wale-yarn, less common, features distinct loops along its length. These yarns are crucial in various industries for their aesthetic appeal and textural qualities. This classification is vital for international trade compliance as it specifically carves out these uniquely constructed yarns from general yarn classifications (Chapters 50-55). Misclassification can lead to incorrect duty rates, penalties, and delays. The scope includes yarns made from various textile fibers, provided they exhibit the defined gimped, chenille, or loop wale characteristics. Exclusions typically involve gimped horsehair yarn (explicitly excluded by the text) and those where the 'gimped' nature is secondary to another primary characteristic. This heading sits within Section XI, which covers Textiles and Textile Articles, specifically Chapter 56 that groups wadding, felt, nonwovens, special yarns, and twine, cordage, rope, and cables, highlighting its specialized nature within the broader textile landscape. Historically, these yarns have been used for decorative purposes, trimmings, and specialized fabrics, maintaining their niche importance in textile arts and manufacturing.

Gimped decorative yarn, chenille upholstery yarn, loop wale craft yarn, gimped metallic yarn, chenille embroidery thread, gimped textile trim yarn, flock chenille yarn for blankets, gimped cord for tassels, chenille yarn for toys, loop wale yarn for specialty fabrics, gimped yarn for fringes, chenille yarn for bathmats, gimped elastic yarn, chenille yarn for scarves, loop wale yarn for decorative elements, gimped yarn for curtain tie-backs, chenille yarn for cushion covers, gimped yarn for braiding, chenille yarn for throws, loop wale yarn for textured apparel, gimped yarn for gift wrapping, chenille yarn for pet beds, gimped yarn for lighting fixtures, chenille yarn for theatrical costumes.

A common misclassification mistake is to classify gimped, chenille, or loop wale-yarns under general yarn headings, such as those in Chapters 52-55 (e.g., 5207 for cotton yarn or 5402 for synthetic filament yarn). Traders often overlook the specific construction definitions that define heading 5606. For instance, a gimped yarn might mistakenly be classified as a simple plied yarn (e.g., 5205), leading to incorrect duty rates. Another confusion point can be with 'braids in the piece' of heading 5808, where a gimped yarn might be part of a more complex decorative article, but if it's still in yarn form, 5606 is correct. The key is to recognize the unique 'gimped,' 'chenille,' or 'loop wale' structure as the primary characteristic.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5606 in UN Comtrade data were China ($284M, 44% of world exports), Italy ($75M) and Türkiye ($54M). World exports came to about $648M, 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 5606 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($71M, 11% of world imports), Italy ($71M) and Bangladesh (about $59M). World imports came to about $669M, 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 5606 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 56 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (56) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (06) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.