HS Code 62.06 – Blouses, shirts and shirt-blouses; women's or girls' (not knitted or crocheted)

HS code 6206 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Blouses, shirts and shirt-blouses; women's or girls' (not knitted or crocheted). Heading 6206 specifically covers women's or girls' woven blouses, shirts, and shirt-blouses, serving as a vital classification for distinguishing these garments from their knitted equivalents. The phrase 'not knitted or crocheted' is the absolute defining characteristic, separating woven items from knitted tops like T-shirts or sweaters, which fall under heading 6106. This heading encompasses a diverse range of styles, from formal office blouses to casual linen shirts and fashion-forward tunic blouses, reflecting the broad spectrum of women's apparel. The scope is focused exclusively on blouses, shirts, and shirt-blouses, making it distinct from other women's garments such as dresses (6204) or outerwear (6202). For trade compliance, accurate classification under 6206 is crucial for determining correct import duties, quotas, and rules of origin, directly impacting the profitability and legality of international trade. Historically, women's woven tops have been a highly dynamic segment of the global apparel market, constantly evolving with fashion trends and consumer preferences. As a key part of Chapter 62, which deals with 'Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted,' this heading emphasizes the manufacturing method as a fundamental classification determinant within Section XI (Textiles and Textile Articles), ensuring clarity and consistency in global customs procedures.

Women's silk blouses, Girls' cotton shirts, Women's linen shirt-blouses, Girls' school uniform blouses, Women's denim shirts, Women's tailored poplin shirts, Girls' peasant blouses, Women's tunic blouses, Women's chiffon blouses, Girls' plaid shirts (woven), Women's ruffled blouses, Women's wrap blouses, Girls' embroidered shirts (woven), Women's office shirts, Women's sleeveless blouses (woven), Girls' smocked blouses, Women's chambray shirts, Women's satin blouses, Girls' Peter Pan collar blouses, Women's oversized shirts (woven), Women's utility blouses, Ladies' georgette blouses, Girls' button-down shirts, Women's formal shirts, Women's longline blouses

A frequent misclassification for HS 6206 involves confusing it with knitted women's blouses, shirts, or T-shirts, which fall under heading 6106. The defining difference is the fabric's construction: 6206 is strictly for woven garments. Another common error is classifying women's outerwear, such as light jackets, as blouses; these correctly belong to 6202. Similarly, classifying women's specific garments like dresses (6204) as blouses if they have a longer length can lead to incorrect classification. Traders must meticulously verify the fabric's weave and the garment's primary identity as a blouse, shirt, or shirt-blouse to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6206 in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.0B, 15% of world exports), India ($1.1B) and Bangladesh (about $1.0B). World exports came to about $13.1B, 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.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 6206 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.7B, 13% of world imports), Germany ($1.2B) and Spain ($912M). World imports came to about $13.1B, 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 6206 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (62) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (06) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.