HS Code for Silkworm gut

Silkworm gut is classified under HS code 5006.00. This material is produced by extracting the silk glands from a silkworm just before it begins to spin its cocoon and stretching them into a strong, transparent filament. In the Harmonized System, this product is grouped with silk yarn put up for retail sale. Although it is not a spun yarn, its physical properties and use in specialized applications like fly-fishing leaders or non-sterile ligatures place it within this specific silk category. The classification is determined by the material origin (silk) and the specific inclusion of "silk-worm gut" in the text of heading 5006.

Products Included

• Natural silkworm gut filaments
• Non-sterile silk gut for fishing
• Silk gut for industrial applications
• Unprocessed silk gland filaments
• Silk-worm gut in hanks

Common Misclassification

Silkworm gut is frequently confused with HS code 3006.10, which covers sterile surgical catgut and similar sterile suture materials. If the silkworm gut has been sterilized and packaged for surgical use, it must be classified in Chapter 30. Another common error is HS code 9507.90, which covers fishing tackle. While silkworm gut is used for fishing leaders, the raw filament itself is classified in Chapter 50 unless it has been significantly processed into a finished piece of fishing tackle.

FAQ

What is the HS code for silkworm gut?

The HS code for silkworm gut is 5006.00, which it shares with silk yarn put up for retail sale.

Is silkworm gut used for surgery classified here?

Only if it is non-sterile. Once it is prepared as a sterile surgical suture, it is classified under HS code 3006.10.