HS Code 58.04 – Tulles and other net fabrics; not including woven, knitted or crocheted fabrics; lace in the piece, in strips or in motifs, (other than fabrics of headings 60.02 to 60.06)

HS code 5804 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Tulles and other net fabrics; not including woven, knitted or crocheted fabrics; lace in the piece, in strips or in motifs, (other than fabrics of headings 60.02 to 60.06). Heading 5804 covers tulles and other net fabrics, specifically excluding woven, knitted, or crocheted fabrics, as well as lace in the piece, in strips, or in motifs, other than fabrics of headings 60.02 to 60.06. This classification is crucial for distinguishing between various types of openwork textile structures. Tulles are typically fine, hexagonal, or diamond-mesh net fabrics, often used in bridalwear and decorative applications. Other net fabrics included here are those made by knotting or twisting rather than weaving, knitting, or crocheting. Lace, under this heading, refers to ornamental openwork fabrics created by various methods, but explicitly excludes knitted or crocheted lace, which falls under Chapter 60. The scope is broad but precise in its exclusions, making accurate classification paramount for trade compliance. The material composition (e.g., nylon, polyester, cotton, silk) will determine the specific subheading and applicable duties and regulations. This heading is significant for industries ranging from fashion and bridalwear to home furnishings and decorative arts. Historically, lace-making has been an intricate craft, with different regions developing unique styles, contributing to the high value and artistic significance of many lace products. As part of Section XI, it highlights the intricate and specialized nature of certain textile articles.

Nylon tulle fabric, polyester net fabric, cotton lace trim, guipure lace in the piece, Chantilly lace motifs, Raschel lace (non-knitted), embroidered lace fabric (where lace is primary), bridal veil netting, decorative lace borders, lace appliques, curtain net fabric, fishnet fabric (non-knitted), bobbinet fabric, lace edgings, Valenciennes lace, Venetian lace, Alençon lace, macrame lace (machine-made, non-knitted), chemical lace, ribbon lace, galloon lace, lace inserts, lace panels, lace for lingerie, lace for evening wear

The most frequent misclassification involves confusing lace or net fabrics of 5804 with knitted or crocheted fabrics of Chapter 60 (specifically 6002-6006). The key differentiator is the *method of production*; 5804 explicitly excludes knitted or crocheted items. Another error is classifying embroidered fabrics of 5810 here when embroidery is the primary characteristic, not the underlying lace. Additionally, finished fishing nets (5608) are sometimes confused, but 5804 applies to the raw net fabric, not a completed net for fishing.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 5804 in UN Comtrade data were China ($890M, 68% of world exports), Türkiye ($66M) and Hong Kong ($58M). World exports came to about $1.3B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Taiwan did not report 2025 data, and its estimate from partner records misses its trade with other countries that did not report: in 2024 that was 58% of its exports here ($51M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top exporters.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 5804 in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $125M, 11% of world imports), Bangladesh (about $111M) and Sri Lanka ($78M). World imports came to about $1.1B, 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 5804 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 58 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (58) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (04) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.