Product classification
HS code for Fabric bags: 4202.22
Cases and containers, handbags (whether or not with shoulder strap and including those without handle), with outer surface of sheeting of plastics or of textile materials.
Classification of fabric bags under HS 4202.22
Fabric bags, specifically those designed as handbags, are classified under HS code 4202.22. Chapter 42 encompasses articles of leather, travel goods, and handbags. Heading 4202 is a broad category for containers such as trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, and handbags. The subheading 4202.22 specifically identifies handbags with an outer surface of sheeting of plastics or of textile materials. Classification is driven by the "outer surface" rule; even if the bag has a metal frame or leather trim, if the predominant material visible on the exterior is textile (such as cotton canvas, nylon, or polyester), it falls under this code. These items are distinguished from general-purpose carrying sacks by their construction, which usually includes handles, internal pockets, or closures intended for personal effects. The material composition of the textile can vary, but the functional design as a handbag is the primary determinant for this specific classification.
- Covers
- Canvas tote bags used as handbags
- Nylon shoulder bags
- Polyester clutch bags
- Cotton fabric handbags with handles
- Textile evening bags
- Denim purses
- Satin handbags
- Also under 4202.22
- Kate Spade Sam bag (nylon)
- Longchamp Le Pliage
- Kipling Gabbie
- Coach Signature Canvas
- Zara faux leather bags
Codes often confused with 4202.22
Common mistake. A frequent point of confusion is between HS code 4202.22 and HS code 6305.20. Code 6305 covers sacks and bags of a kind used for the packing of goods (like bulk flour or grain bags). If a fabric bag is simple, lacks a closure, and is intended for transport rather than as a personal accessory, it may fall under 6305. Furthermore, if the outer surface is more than 50% leather, it must be classified under 4202.21. Backpacks and sports bags are also often confused with handbags but are classified under 4202.92.
Top exporters and importers of HS 420222 (the code used for fabric bags), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 420222 (the code used for fabric bags) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 34% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 420222, not only fabric bags.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $6.2B 34% of world exports
- 2 France $3.7B 20% of world exports
- 3 Italy $2.0B 11% of world exports
World total: $18.2B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $2.1B 14% of world imports
- 2 United States $1.7B 11% of world imports
- 3 Italy $1.0B 6.7% of world imports
World total: $15.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for fabric bags
Brazil splits HS 4202.22 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 4202.22.10Handbags of plastic sheeting
- 4202.22.20Handbags of textile materials
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about fabric bags
What is the HS code for Fabric bags?
The HS code for Fabric bags is 420222 (Cases and containers; handbags (whether or not with shoulder strap and including those without handle), with outer surface of sheeting of plastics or of textile materials). The HS code for fabric handbags with an outer surface of textile materials is 4202.22.
How do I classify Fabric bags for customs?
Fabric bags is classified under HS code 420222 — Cases and containers; handbags (whether or not with shoulder strap and including those without handle), with outer surface of sheeting of plastics or of textile materials. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are reusable grocery bags classified here?
Generally, no. Simple reusable shopping bags without the structural features of a handbag are often classified under 6305.90, unless they are constructed in a way that mimics a handbag.
Which countries are the top exporters of fabric bags (HS 420222)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 420222 (the code used for fabric bags) in UN Comtrade data were China ($6.2B, 34% of world exports), France ($3.7B) and Italy ($2.0B). World exports came to about $18.2B, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of fabric bags (HS 420222)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 420222 (the code used for fabric bags) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.1B, 14% of world imports), the United States ($1.7B) and Italy ($1.0B). World imports came to about $15.0B, 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.
Is the HS code for Fabric bags the same in all countries?
The base HS code 420222 for Fabric bags is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for fabric bags in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 420222 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for fabric bags depends on the product's details: 4202.22.10 (Handbags of plastic sheeting), 4202.22.20 (Handbags of textile materials).