HS Code 60.04 – Fabrics; knitted or crocheted fabrics of a width exceeding 30 cm, other than those of heading 60.01, containing by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread

HS code 6004 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Fabrics; knitted or crocheted fabrics of a width exceeding 30 cm, other than those of heading 60.01, containing by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread. Heading 6004 specifically designates knitted or crocheted fabrics of a width exceeding 30 cm, other than those of heading 60.01 (pile fabrics), containing by weight 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread. This classification is critical for wide, stretchable knitted fabrics, which are foundational to modern apparel, particularly activewear, swimwear, and shapewear. The 'other than 60.01' clause ensures that pile fabrics, even if wide and elastic, are excluded. The 'width exceeding 30 cm' is a key differentiator, setting these fabrics apart from narrow elastic knits in 6002. The requirement of 5% or more elastomeric yarn or rubber thread content is crucial, ensuring only significantly stretchy fabrics fall into this category, distinguishing them from wide non-elastic knits (6005/6006). This heading is vital for trade compliance professionals, as accurate classification directly impacts duty rates and adherence to specific textile regulations. The rise of performance wear and comfortable stretch clothing has made these fabrics indispensable in the global textile market. Historically, advancements in synthetic fibers and knitting technology have driven the evolution and widespread adoption of these materials. This heading's relationship to Chapter 60 confirms its identity as a knitted fabric, providing a precise classification for these high-demand, functional textiles.

Wide knitted stretch jersey fabric, knitted power mesh (wide rolls), knitted elastane blends for activewear, wide knitted stretch interlock fabric, knitted spandex-blend fabrics for swimwear, wide knitted compression fabrics, knitted stretch denim fabric, wide knitted fabrics for yoga wear, knitted elastomeric fabrics for lingerie, wide knitted stretch fleece, knitted technical stretch fabrics for outdoor wear, wide knitted fabrics for shapewear, knitted stretch performance fabrics, wide knitted stretch tricot, knitted stretch fabrics for medical garments, knitted stretch scuba fabric, wide knitted stretch pique, knitted stretch poplin fabric, wide knitted stretch lining fabric, knitted stretch thermal fabric, wide knitted stretch double knit, knitted stretch modal fabric, knitted stretch rayon fabric, knitted stretch nylon fabric, wide knitted stretch synthetic blends.

Common misclassification errors include confusing these fabrics with narrow elastic knits (6002) by overlooking the width criterion, or with non-elastic wide knits (6005 or 6006) by ignoring the 5% elastomeric content requirement. Another frequent mistake is classifying woven stretch fabrics (e.g., woven stretch denim in Chapter 52, 54, or 55) under 6004, failing to adhere to the 'knitted or crocheted' method. Furthermore, finished articles made from these fabrics, such as complete garments (Chapter 61 or 62), should not be classified here, as 6004 is exclusively for fabrics in the piece.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6004 in UN Comtrade data were China ($6.3B, 68% of world exports), South Korea ($468M) and Italy ($449M). World exports came to about $9.3B, 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 70% of its exports here ($531M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top exporters.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 6004 in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $2.0B, 25% of world imports), Cambodia (about $747M) and Bangladesh (about $683M). World imports came to about $8.2B, 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 6004 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 60 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (60) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (04) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.