Product classification
HS code for Fabric knitting machine: 8447.12
Knitting machines, circular, with cylinder diameter exceeding 165mm.
Classification of fabric knitting machine under HS 8447.12
Fabric knitting machines of the circular variety with a cylinder diameter exceeding 165 mm are classified under HS code 8447.12. This classification is found in Chapter 84, which deals with mechanical appliances. Heading 8447 covers knitting machines, stitch-bonding machines, and machines for making gimped yarn, tulle, lace, or embroidery. The subheading 8447.12 is specifically defined by the mechanical dimensions of the machine. Circular knitting machines are used to produce seamless tubes of fabric which are then cut and sewn into garments or used as industrial rolls. The 165 mm threshold is a critical technical distinction in the Harmonized System, as it typically separates smaller machines used for hosiery (socks and stockings) from larger machines used for bulk fabric production. These machines are complex industrial assets featuring multiple feeders, needles, and sophisticated control systems to create various knit structures like jersey, rib, or interlock.
- Covers
- Large diameter circular knitting machines
- Industrial jersey fabric machines
- Circular interlock knitting machines
- Rib knitting machines (diameter > 165mm)
- Double-knit circular machines
- Fleece knitting machines
- Circular looms for textile fabric
- Also under 8447.12
Mayer & Cie. Relanit, Terrot S1P, Orizio MJM, Fukuhara V-LEC
Codes often confused with 8447.12
Common mistake. The most common error is misclassifying these under 8447.11, which is for circular knitting machines with a cylinder diameter of 165 mm or less. Another frequent mistake is using 8447.20, which is reserved for flat knitting machines or stitch-bonding machines. Importers also sometimes confuse these with weaving machines (looms), which are classified under heading 8446. It is vital to verify the cylinder diameter from the manufacturer's technical specifications to ensure the correct subheading is applied, as duty rates can vary between the size categories.
Top exporters and importers of HS 844712 (the code used for fabric knitting machine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 844712 (the code used for fabric knitting machine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 59% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 22% of world imports. Bangladesh 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 21% of its imports here ($12M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 844712, not only fabric knitting machine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $320M 59% of world exports
- 2 Germany $65M 12% of world exports
- 3 Japan $51M 9.4% of world exports
World total: $539M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $108M 22% of world imports
- 2 Vietnam* ~$67M 14% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Türkiye $42M 8.5% of world imports
Bangladesh 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 21% of its imports here ($12M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
World total: $492M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 code for fabric knitting machine
Brazil classifies fabric knitting machine under NCM 8447.12.00: HS 8447.12 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about fabric knitting machine
What is the HS code for Fabric knitting machine?
The HS code for Fabric knitting machine is 844712 (Knitting machines; circular, with cylinder diameter exceeding 165mm). For a circular fabric knitting machine with a diameter greater than 165 mm, the HS code is 8447.12.
How do I classify Fabric knitting machine for customs?
Fabric knitting machine is classified under HS code 844712 — Knitting machines; circular, with cylinder diameter exceeding 165mm. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What if the knitting machine is flat instead of circular?
If the machine is a flat-bed knitting machine, it should be classified under HS code 8447.20, regardless of its size.
Which countries are the top exporters of fabric knitting machine (HS 844712)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 844712 (the code used for fabric knitting machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($320M, 59% of world exports), Germany ($65M) and Japan ($51M). World exports came to about $539M, 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 knitting machine (HS 844712)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 844712 (the code used for fabric knitting machine) in UN Comtrade data were India ($108M, 22% of world imports), Vietnam (about $67M) and Türkiye ($42M). World imports came to about $492M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Bangladesh 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 21% of its imports here ($12M, CEPII BACI), so it may also belong among the top importers.
Is the HS code for Fabric knitting machine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 844712 for Fabric knitting machine 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 knitting machine in Brazil?
In Brazil, fabric knitting machine (HS 844712) is classified under NCM 8447.12.00.