HS Code 58.03 – Gauze; other than narrow fabrics of heading no. 5806

HS code 5803 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Gauze; other than narrow fabrics of heading no. 5806. Heading 5803 specifically covers gauze, other than narrow fabrics of heading 5806. This classification is vital for understanding textiles characterized by a unique open-weave structure, often referred to as a leno weave, where two warp yarns are twisted around the weft yarn. This distinct weaving technique creates a sheer, lightweight fabric with an open texture, differing significantly from plain woven fabrics. The scope of this heading includes various types of gauze, irrespective of their fiber composition, provided they are not narrow fabrics. It's crucial to distinguish raw gauze fabric from finished medical dressings (which fall under Chapter 30 or 63 if put up for retail medical use), as 5803 pertains to the textile material itself, not sterilized or packaged medical products. This classification is important for trade compliance because the fiber content (e.g., cotton, synthetic, silk) will determine the specific subheading and applicable duties, quotas, and trade regulations. Historically, gauze has been used for centuries, evolving from simple protective coverings to specialized industrial and fashion applications due to its breathability and light weight. As part of Section XI, this heading underscores the diversity and specificity within woven textile categories.

Cotton gauze fabric, polyester gauze fabric, silk gauze fabric, rayon gauze fabric, linen gauze fabric, curtain gauze, mosquito netting fabric (leno weave), cheesecloth (leno weave), gauze for apparel lining, industrial filter gauze fabric, decorative sheer gauze, gauze for theatrical backdrops, bandage gauze (unprocessed), medical gauze fabric (non-sterile, in bulk), gauze for food straining, gauze for bookbinding, gauze for craft projects, gauze for garment interlining, lightweight cotton gauze for shirting, blend gauze fabric, dyed gauze fabric, printed gauze fabric, bleached gauze fabric, unbleached gauze fabric, wide-width gauze fabric

Traders often misclassify raw gauze fabric as medical dressings (3005) or finished bandages (6307). However, 5803 is for the unprocessed fabric in bulk, not sterilized or retail-packaged medical items. Another common error is confusing gauze with other plain woven fabrics (Chapters 50-55); the defining characteristic of gauze in 5803 is its leno or 'cross-weave' structure. Additionally, if the gauze is of a narrow width and meets the criteria for narrow woven fabrics, it should be classified under 5806, not 5803.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5803 in UN Comtrade data were China ($14M, 23% of world exports), Germany ($8.7M) and Japan ($7.9M). World exports came to about $58M, 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 5803 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($9.4M, 12% of world imports), Poland ($8.6M) and Armenia ($4.8M). World imports came to about $80M, 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 5803 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 58 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (58) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (03) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.