Product classification
HS code for linen yarn: 5306.20
Yarn, of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled.
Classification of linen yarn under HS 5306.20
Linen yarn classified under HS code 5306.20 is specifically defined as yarn made from flax fibers that has been processed into a multiple (folded) or cabled construction. The classification is determined by the botanical origin of the fiber, which must be Linum usitatissimum, and the mechanical structure of the yarn. In the Harmonized System, flax yarn is categorized based on whether it is a single strand or multiple strands twisted together. Subheading 5306.20 is reserved for these multi-strand configurations, which are typically stronger and more durable than single yarns. This classification requires the yarn to be composed primarily of flax; if blended with other fibers, the flax must predominate by weight. The technical distinction between single and multiple yarns is critical for customs valuation and trade statistics, as cabled yarns often represent a higher level of manufacturing complexity used in premium textiles, upholstery, and industrial sewing threads.
- Covers
- Multiple (folded) flax yarn
- Cabled linen yarn
- Twisted flax threads for weaving
- Reinforced linen yarn for industrial use
- Multi-ply linen embroidery thread
- 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. Linen yarn is frequently misclassified under HS code 5306.10, which is strictly for single flax yarns. Another common error involves HS code 5308.90, which covers other vegetable textile fibers; however, flax has its own dedicated heading (5306). Additionally, if the yarn is put up for retail sale, it might be confused with heading 5402 for synthetic filaments, though the natural origin of flax dictates its placement in Chapter 53.
Top exporters and importers of HS 530620 (the code used for linen yarn), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 530620 (the code used for linen 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 linen 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 linen yarn
Brazil classifies linen 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 linen yarn
What is the HS code for linen yarn?
The HS code for linen yarn is 530620 (Yarn; of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled). The HS code for multiple or cabled linen (flax) yarn is 5306.20, while single linen yarn is classified under 5306.10.
How do I classify linen yarn for customs?
linen yarn is classified under HS code 530620 — Yarn; of flax, multiple (folded) or cabled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between single and multiple linen yarn?
Single yarn is a single strand of fibers twisted together, whereas multiple (folded) yarn consists of two or more single yarns twisted in one or more folding operations to increase strength.
Which countries are the top exporters of linen yarn (HS 530620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 530620 (the code used for linen 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 linen yarn (HS 530620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 530620 (the code used for linen 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 linen yarn the same in all countries?
The base HS code 530620 for linen 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 linen yarn in Brazil?
In Brazil, linen yarn (HS 530620) is classified under NCM 5306.20.00.