Product classification
HS code for flax yarn: 5306.20
Yarn, of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled.
Classification of flax yarn under HS 5306.20
HS code 5306.20 specifically covers flax yarn that is multiple (folded) or cabled. In the textile industry, yarn is classified not only by its material composition but also by its structural construction. A 'multiple' or 'folded' yarn is created by twisting together two or more single yarns. A 'cabled' yarn is produced by twisting together two or more multiple yarns. This classification is distinct from single yarns (5306.10) because the physical properties—such as tensile strength, thickness, and durability—are significantly altered by the plying process. The Harmonized System requires that these yarns be made of flax (linen) fibers. The measurement of the yarn, often expressed in decitex or metric number (Nm), is frequently required for detailed customs declarations, although the primary 6-digit classification depends on the ply. These yarns are commonly used in heavy-duty sewing, lace making, and the production of high-quality woven fabrics where strength is paramount. Accurate classification ensures that the correct anti-dumping duties or trade preferences are applied, as many regions have specific rules for processed yarns.
- Covers
- Two-ply flax yarn (folded)
- Three-ply or four-ply linen threads
- Cabled flax cords used for industrial sewing
- Multiple flax yarns for high-end knitwear
- Folded linen yarn for warp in weaving
- Also under 5306.20
- Linificio e Canapificio Nazionale (LCN) linen yarn
- Safilin flax yarn
- Flax-Art cabled yarn
- Flax & Hemp Co. industrial thread
Codes often confused with 5306.20
Common mistake. The most frequent error is using 5306.10, which is only for single flax yarns. If two single yarns are twisted together, they must move to 5306.20. Another common mistake is confusing flax yarn with 'twine or rope' under heading 5607. According to the Section XI notes, yarn only becomes twine or rope if it exceeds a certain thickness (measured in decitex). Additionally, synthetic yarns (Chapter 54 or 55) are sometimes confused with flax yarn if they have a 'linen-look' finish, but chemical testing will reveal the true fiber origin.
Top exporters and importers of HS 530620 (the code used for flax yarn), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 530620 (the code used for flax yarn) in UN Comtrade data was India, with 28% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 48% 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 530620, not only flax yarn.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 India $15M 28% of world exports
- 2 Italy $13M 24% of world exports
- 3 China $7.3M 14% of world exports
World total: $52M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $30M 48% of world imports
- 2 Belgium $5.8M 9.2% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$2.6M 4.2% of world imports · partner records ↗
World total: $63M 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 flax yarn
Brazil classifies flax yarn under NCM 5306.20.00: HS 5306.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about flax yarn
What is the HS code for flax yarn?
The HS code for flax yarn is 530620 (Yarn; of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled). For multiple (folded) or cabled flax yarn, the HS code is 5306.20. Single flax yarn is 5306.10.
How do I classify flax yarn for customs?
flax yarn is classified under HS code 530620 — Yarn; of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What does 'multiple' mean in HS classification?
Multiple yarn refers to yarn formed by two or more single yarns twisted together in a single folding operation.
Which countries are the top exporters of flax yarn (HS 530620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 530620 (the code used for flax yarn) in UN Comtrade data were India ($15M, 28% of world exports), Italy ($13M) and China ($7.3M). World exports came to about $52M, 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 flax yarn (HS 530620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 530620 (the code used for flax yarn) in UN Comtrade data were India ($30M, 48% of world imports), Belgium ($5.8M) and Vietnam (about $2.6M). World imports came to about $63M, 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 flax yarn the same in all countries?
The base HS code 530620 for flax yarn 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 flax yarn in Brazil?
In Brazil, flax yarn (HS 530620) is classified under NCM 5306.20.00.