HS Code for Dyed viscose fabric

Dyed viscose fabric is classified under HS code 5516.12. This classification is determined by the material composition and the manufacturing process of the fibers. Viscose is categorized as an 'artificial' fiber because it is derived from regenerated cellulose, unlike 'synthetic' fibers which are polymer-based. Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System covers man-made staple fibers. Heading 5516 is reserved for woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers. The subheading 5516.12 is applied when the fabric consists of 85% or more by weight of these artificial staple fibers and has undergone a dyeing process. The use of staple fibers (short fibers spun into yarn) distinguishes this classification from Chapter 54, which covers continuous filaments. Proper classification requires verifying that the viscose content meets the 85% threshold and that the fabric is dyed a uniform color rather than being printed or woven from multi-colored yarns.

Products Included

• 100% dyed viscose woven fabric
• Dyed rayon staple fiber cloth
• Woven fabrics containing 90% viscose staple fibers and 10% cotton
• Dyed modal staple fiber fabrics (where modal is treated as artificial)
• Heavy-weight dyed viscose twill made from staple yarns

Common Misclassification

A frequent mistake is classifying this material under 5408.22, which is for dyed fabrics made of artificial filament yarn. The difference is whether the viscose is in continuous filament form or short staple form. Another misclassification occurs with 5516.22, which is used for fabrics containing less than 85% artificial staple fibers mixed with other materials. If the fabric is unbleached or bleached rather than dyed, it should be moved to 5516.11. Finally, synthetic fabrics like polyester (Chapter 54 or 55) are often confused with artificial fabrics like viscose, but they are chemically distinct.

FAQ

What is the HS code for dyed viscose fabric?

The HS code is 5516.12, covering woven fabrics containing 85% or more artificial staple fibers that are dyed.

Is viscose classified as synthetic or artificial in the HS system?

In the Harmonized System, viscose is classified as an artificial fiber because it is made from regenerated organic polymers (cellulose), whereas synthetic fibers are made from inorganic chemicals.