HS Code for Lightweight colored cotton fabric

HS code 5208.31 is used for lightweight colored cotton fabrics that meet specific technical parameters regarding composition, weave, and weight. To qualify, the fabric must consist of 85% or more cotton by weight, ensuring it is classified as a "pure" cotton textile under heading 5208. The fabric must be "dyed," meaning it has been immersed in a colorant to achieve a uniform hue, as opposed to being bleached or printed. The weave must be a "plain weave," which is the simplest interlacing pattern of warp and weft threads. Finally, the weight must not exceed 100g/m2. This specific subheading is often used for high-quality shirting, voile, or lightweight apparel fabrics. Classification errors often occur when the weight is slightly above the 100g/m2 limit or if the weave is a more complex structure like twill or dobby. The 100g/m2 limit is a strict threshold; fabrics weighing 101g/m2 would move to a different subheading within the same category.

Products Included

• Dyed cotton voile (plain weave)
• Dyed cotton lawn (under 100g/m2)
• Plain weave dyed cotton batiste
• Lightweight dyed cotton organza
• Dyed cotton cambric under 100g/m2

Common Misclassification

Which other HS codes get confused with this one and why. Mention specific code numbers. It is frequently confused with HS code 5208.41 (fabrics of yarns of different colors) or 5208.51 (printed fabrics). If the color is applied via printing rather than immersion dyeing, 5208.51 is the correct code. Also, if the weight exceeds 100g/m2 but is under 200g/m2, it falls under 5208.32.

FAQ

What is the HS code for lightweight colored cotton fabric?

The HS code for dyed, plain weave cotton fabric containing 85% or more cotton and weighing 100g/m2 or less is 5208.31.

What if the fabric is a twill weave?

If the fabric is a twill weave rather than a plain weave, it cannot be classified under 5208.31 and would likely fall under 5208.33, provided it meets the other weight and composition requirements.