HS Code for flax fiber

Flax fiber in its raw or retted state is classified under HS code 5301.10. This code is part of the broader heading 5301, which covers flax, raw or processed but not spun. The classification 5301.10 specifically targets the earliest stages of flax production. "Raw" flax refers to the plant (Linum usitatissimum) after harvesting, while "retted" flax refers to fibers that have undergone a moisture-based process to dissolve the natural pectins binding the fibers to the woody stem. This stage is critical because the fibers have not yet been broken, scutched, or combed (which would move them to 5301.21 or 5301.29). Classification under 5301.10 is based on the principle that the material is a primary agricultural product rather than a manufactured textile yarn. It serves as the raw material for the linen industry, and its classification ensures accurate tracking of the global trade in raw textile fibers.

Products Included

• Raw flax straw (harvested stalks)
• Water-retted flax fibers
• Dew-retted flax stalks
• Flax fibers in bundles (not yet scutched)
• Dried flax plants for fiber extraction

Common Misclassification

Flax fiber is often misclassified under 5301.21 or 5301.29. These codes are for flax that has been broken, scutched, or hackled (combed). Scutching is the mechanical process of removing the woody part of the stem, and once this occurs, the fiber is no longer "raw or retted" under 5301.10. Another error is confusing raw flax with flax waste (5301.30), which consists of short fibers or tangled masses unsuitable for high-quality spinning.

FAQ

What is the HS code for raw flax fiber?

The HS code for raw or retted flax fiber is 5301.10.

What does "retted" mean in this classification?

Retting is a fermentation process using moisture (water or dew) to separate the flax fibers from the woody core of the plant stalk.