HS Code 60.02 – Fabrics; knitted or crocheted, other than those of heading 60.01, of a width not exceeding 30cm, containing by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread

HS code 6002 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Fabrics; knitted or crocheted, other than those of heading 60.01, of a width not exceeding 30cm, containing by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread. Heading 6002 specifically covers knitted or crocheted fabrics, other than those of heading 60.01 (pile fabrics), which have a width not exceeding 30 cm and contain by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread. This is a highly specialized classification for narrow, elasticized knitted fabrics. The 'other than 60.01' clause ensures that pile fabrics, even if narrow and elastic, are excluded. The strict width limitation (<=30 cm) is critical, differentiating these fabrics from wider elastic knits found in 6004. The minimum elastomeric or rubber content (>=5%) ensures that only truly elastic fabrics are classified here, distinguishing them from non-elastic narrow knits (6003). This classification is vital for manufacturers of specialized garment components, medical textiles, and industrial straps, where elasticity and narrow form factor are key. Trade compliance professionals must meticulously verify both width and material composition to prevent misclassification. Historically, the demand for narrow elastic textiles grew with advancements in garment construction (e.g., waistbands, cuffs) and medical applications (e.g., compression bandages). This heading's place within Chapter 60 highlights its nature as a knitted fabric, with its specific criteria carving out a niche for functional, elasticized narrow textiles within the broader textile trade landscape, impacting duty rates and specific product regulations.

Knitted elastic waistbands (rolls), narrow elastic ribbing for cuffs, knitted elastic trims for lingerie, narrow elastic bands for sportswear, knitted compression bands (narrow width), narrow knitted elastic medical bandages (in the piece), elastic knit tapes for garment edges, knitted elasticized shoe laces (bulk fabric), narrow elastic straps for masks (fabric), knitted elasticized hair ties (fabric rolls), narrow elasticized bra straps (fabric), knitted elastic bands for activewear, narrow stretch knit trims, knitted elastic webbing for garments, narrow knitted power mesh (elastic), knitted elastic drawstrings (fabric), narrow tubular elastic knits, knitted elasticated piping, narrow knitted elastic for hosiery, knitted elastic binding tapes, narrow stretch knit cuffs, knitted elasticated medical support fabric, narrow knitted elastic for orthopedic braces, knitted elasticized headbands (fabric), narrow elastic knit for industrial applications.

A frequent error is confusing these narrow elastic knits with wider elastic knits (6004), or with non-elastic narrow knits (6003). The width limit of 30 cm is a strict boundary. Another common mistake is classifying woven elastic narrow fabrics (e.g., elastic webbing in 5806) here, overlooking the 'knitted or crocheted' requirement. Furthermore, finished articles, such as individual elastic bands or complete medical bandages ready for use, should not be classified under 6002, which is for fabrics in the piece. These made-up articles would typically fall under Chapters 61, 62, or 63, depending on their nature.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6002 in UN Comtrade data were China ($187M, 48% of world exports), Hong Kong ($42M) and the United States ($23M). World exports came to about $391M, 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 6002 in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $58M, 17% of world imports), Indonesia ($23M) and Bangladesh (about $21M). World imports came to about $346M, 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 6002 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 60 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (60) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (02) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.