Product classification
HS code for Silk waste yarn: 5005.00
Silk, yarn spun from silk waste, not put up for retail sale.
Classification of silk waste yarn under HS 5005.00
Silk waste yarn is classified under HS code 500500, which specifically covers yarn spun from silk waste that is not put up for retail sale. This classification is distinct from virgin silk yarn because the fibers used are derived from the by-products of the reeling and spinning processes. There are two primary types of yarn included here: schappe silk yarn, which is made from high-quality waste that has been degummed and combed, and bourette silk yarn, which is made from shorter fibers or noils. The 'not put up for retail sale' provision is a technical requirement defined in the Section XI notes of the Harmonized System. Generally, this means the yarn is imported in bulk forms like large cones, tubes, or hanks intended for industrial weaving or knitting rather than small balls or skeins for consumer use. If the yarn were packaged for retail, it would move to heading 5006. Accurate classification requires verifying the fiber source and the packaging specifications. The production of silk waste yarn involves spinning short-staple fibers, which gives the yarn a different texture and strength profile compared to continuous filament silk. This yarn is often used in the production of heavier fabrics, upholstery, or casual apparel. Customs officials may require documentation proving the yarn was spun from waste (noils or schappe) rather than reeled from whole cocoons. The distinction is important because waste yarn often carries different tariff rates and is subject to different trade quotas in certain jurisdictions. Furthermore, the yarn must consist of at least 85% silk by weight to be classified here if it is a blend, otherwise, it may fall under mixed textile headings in Chapter 55.
- Covers
- Schappe silk yarn (not for retail)
- Bourette silk yarn (not for retail)
- Spun silk yarn derived from noils
- Industrial silk waste yarn on cones
- Also under 5005.00
- Spun silk yarn for weaving
- Silk noil yarn for knitwear
- Schappe silk yarn for upholstery
- Bourette silk yarn for artisanal fabrics
Codes often confused with 5005.00
Common mistake. The most common error is confusing 500500 with 500400 (Silk yarn other than waste). Another frequent mistake is using 500600, which is the correct code if the silk waste yarn is packaged for retail sale (e.g., in small skeins for hand-knitting). Importers also sometimes use 560500 if the yarn is metallized, which is incorrect.
Top exporters and importers of HS 500500 (the code used for silk waste yarn), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 500500 (the code used for silk waste yarn) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 74% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 46% 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 500500, not only silk waste yarn.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $76M 74% of world exports
- 2 Italy $11M 11% of world exports
- 3 Switzerland $3.5M 3.4% of world exports
World total: $103M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Italy $41M 46% of world imports
- 2 Japan $11M 13% of world imports
- 3 India $5.7M 6.4% of world imports
World total: $89M 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 that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. 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 silk waste yarn
Brazil classifies silk waste yarn under NCM 5005.00.00: HS 5005.00 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about silk waste yarn
What is the HS code for Silk waste yarn?
The HS code for Silk waste yarn is 500500 (Silk; yarn spun from silk waste, not put up for retail sale). The HS code for silk waste yarn not put up for retail sale is 500500.
How do I classify Silk waste yarn for customs?
Silk waste yarn is classified under HS code 500500 — Silk; yarn spun from silk waste, not put up for retail sale. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the difference between schappe and bourette yarn?
Schappe is made from longer waste fibers and is smoother, while bourette is made from short noils and has a nubby texture; both are classified under 500500.
Which countries are the top exporters of silk waste yarn (HS 500500)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 500500 (the code used for silk waste yarn) in UN Comtrade data were China ($76M, 74% of world exports), Italy ($11M) and Switzerland ($3.5M). World exports came to about $103M, 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 silk waste yarn (HS 500500)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 500500 (the code used for silk waste yarn) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($41M, 46% of world imports), Japan ($11M) and India ($5.7M). World imports came to about $89M, 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 Silk waste yarn the same in all countries?
The base HS code 500500 for Silk waste 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 silk waste yarn in Brazil?
In Brazil, silk waste yarn (HS 500500) is classified under NCM 5005.00.00.