HS Code for Plastic coated fabric

HS code 5903.90 is assigned to textile fabrics that have been impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated with plastics, specifically those other than polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). This classification falls under Chapter 59, which deals with impregnated, coated, or laminated textile fabrics. The classification is based on the "essential character" rule; the textile must remain the substrate, providing the structural base, while the plastic coating adds functional properties like water resistance, windproofing, or increased durability. For a fabric to be classified under 5903, the plastic coating must be visible to the naked eye, otherwise than by a change of color. If the plastic is not visible, the fabric remains classified in Chapters 50 to 55 or 58. This specific subheading (5903.90) acts as a residual category for fabrics treated with acrylic, silicone, or polyethylene, ensuring that technical textiles not using the more common PVC or PU are correctly accounted for in international trade.

Products Included

• Acrylic-coated nylon fabrics
• Silicone-coated polyester for outdoor gear
• Polyethylene-laminated woven fabrics
• Water-resistant textile membranes for apparel
• Plastic-impregnated industrial canvas

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 5903.10 (PVC coated) and 5903.20 (Polyurethane coated). It is critical to identify the chemical nature of the plastic coating to avoid misclassification. Furthermore, if the plastic layer is so thick that the product is essentially a plastic sheet with a textile reinforcement (where the plastic predominates by weight or character), it should be classified under Chapter 39 (specifically 3921) rather than Chapter 59.

FAQ

What is the HS code for plastic coated fabric?

The HS code for plastic coated fabric (excluding PVC and PU) is 5903.90.

How do I distinguish between 5903 and 3921?

If the textile fabric is completely embedded in plastic or if the plastic coating can be seen with the naked eye and the textile is merely a reinforcement, it belongs in 3921. If the textile provides the main character, it stays in 5903.