Product classification

HS code for Synthetic sewing thread: 5508.10

Sewing thread, of synthetic staple fibres, whether or not put up for retail sale.

Classification of synthetic sewing thread under HS 5508.10

HS code 550810 is specifically allocated to sewing thread made of synthetic staple fibers. To be classified under this heading, the textile product must meet the definition of "sewing thread" provided in the Section XI notes of the Harmonized System. This generally means the thread must be dressed (finished) or have a final "Z" twist, making it suitable for use in a sewing machine or for hand stitching. The use of staple fibers—which are fibers of a limited length that have been spun together—is the primary factor that distinguishes this code from those in Chapter 54, which covers filament yarns. Whether the thread is intended for industrial use on large cones or put up for retail sale on small spools, it remains within this classification. The technical distinction between staple and filament is crucial for trade statistics and regulatory compliance, as the manufacturing processes for these two types of thread involve different industrial sectors. The classification is also independent of the weight or decitex of the thread, provided it meets the functional definition of sewing thread rather than general-purpose yarn.

Covers
  • Polyester staple fiber sewing thread
  • Acrylic sewing thread
  • Spun synthetic sewing kits
  • Industrial synthetic thread spools
  • Polypropylene sewing thread made from staple fibers
Also under 5508.10
  • Coats Dual Duty XP
  • Gutermann Sew-All Thread
  • A&E Perma Core
  • YKK Excella Thread
  • Mettler Metrosene

Codes often confused with 5508.10

Common mistake. Frequently confused with 540110, which covers sewing thread made of synthetic filaments (continuous strands). It may also be mistaken for 5509, which covers yarn of synthetic staple fibers that has not been specifically prepared, twisted, or finished for use as sewing thread. Using the wrong code can lead to issues with textile quotas or anti-dumping duties.

5401.10Sewing thread; of synthetic filaments, whether or not put up for retail sale55.09Yarn (other than sewing thread) of synthetic staple fibres, not put up for retail sale

Top exporters and importers of HS 550810 (the code used for synthetic sewing thread), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 550810 (the code used for synthetic sewing thread) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 65% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Vietnam, with about 8.2% 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 550810, not only synthetic sewing thread.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $402M
  2. 2 Türkiye $21M
  3. 3 Hong Kong $19M

World total: $616M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Vietnam* ~$40M
  2. 2 Cambodia* ~$27M
  3. 3 Bangladesh* ~$25M

World total: $489M 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 synthetic sewing thread

Brazil classifies synthetic sewing thread under NCM 5508.10.00: HS 5508.10 with 00 added.

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about synthetic sewing thread

What is the HS code for Synthetic sewing thread?

The HS code for Synthetic sewing thread is 550810 (Sewing thread; of synthetic staple fibres, whether or not put up for retail sale). The HS code for sewing thread made of synthetic staple fibers is 550810.

How do I classify Synthetic sewing thread for customs?

Synthetic sewing thread is classified under HS code 550810 — Sewing thread; of synthetic staple fibres, whether or not put up for retail sale. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

What defines a product as sewing thread in the HS system?

It must be a multiple (folded) or cabled yarn, have a final "Z" twist, and be processed or finished in a way that makes it suitable for sewing (e.g., glazed or polished).

Which countries are the top exporters of synthetic sewing thread (HS 550810)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 550810 (the code used for synthetic sewing thread) in UN Comtrade data were China ($402M, 65% of world exports), Türkiye ($21M) and Hong Kong ($19M). World exports came to about $616M, 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 synthetic sewing thread (HS 550810)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 550810 (the code used for synthetic sewing thread) in UN Comtrade data were Vietnam (about $40M, 8.2% of world imports), Cambodia (about $27M) and Bangladesh (about $25M). World imports came to about $489M, 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 Synthetic sewing thread the same in all countries?

The base HS code 550810 for Synthetic sewing thread 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 synthetic sewing thread in Brazil?

In Brazil, synthetic sewing thread (HS 550810) is classified under NCM 5508.10.00.