HS Code for Patterned artificial fiber fabric

Patterned artificial fiber fabric is classified under HS code 5516.93, which pertains to woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers. The classification is determined by three primary factors: the nature of the fiber, the weight composition, and the coloring process. Artificial staple fibers include materials like viscose rayon, modal, and lyocell. The '93' suffix specifically denotes fabrics woven from yarns of different colors, which is the technical definition for patterned fabrics such as stripes, checks, or jacquard weaves. This code is used when the fabric does not meet the criteria for being mixed primarily with cotton, wool, or man-made filaments, or when the artificial fiber content is less than 85% but does not fall into other specific blend categories. Under the General Interpretative Rules (GIR), specifically Rule 3, the classification follows the material that provides the essential character, which in this case is the artificial staple fiber. Importers must provide a detailed fiber breakdown by weight to ensure the artificial component is correctly identified against synthetic or natural alternatives.

Products Included

• Jacquard woven viscose staple fabrics
• Multi-colored modal check fabrics
• Striped rayon staple fiber textiles
• Woven patterned lyocell fabrics
• Dobby woven artificial fiber blends

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with HS code 5516.94, which covers printed artificial fiber fabrics. The distinction lies in whether the pattern is woven into the fabric using different colored yarns (5516.93) or applied to the surface after weaving (5516.94). Additionally, if the fabric is 100% artificial staple fiber, it may be misclassified under 5516.13. Another common error involves HS code 5408, which is reserved for fabrics made of artificial filament yarn rather than staple fibers. Distinguishing between continuous filaments and chopped staple fibers is essential for correct tariff application.

FAQ

What is the HS code for patterned artificial fiber fabric?

The HS code for woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers, made of yarns of different colors (patterned), is 5516.93.

How do I distinguish between artificial and synthetic fibers for classification?

Artificial fibers are derived from natural polymers (like cellulose in rayon), while synthetic fibers are entirely chemically synthesized (like polyester). This distinction determines whether a fabric falls under heading 5516 or 5515.