HS Code for Raw Cotton Fiber
The HS Code for raw cotton fiber is 520100. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 31.4c/kg.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 520100 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 31.4c/kg |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 0% |
| Chapter | 52 |
| Heading | 5201 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Cotton, not carded or combed
HS Code 520100 is for raw, unprocessed cotton fiber that has not been carded or combed, with a US MFN duty rate of 31.4 cents per kilogram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard packaging requirements for shipping raw cotton fiber (HTS 520100) by ocean freight to avoid contamination and moisture damage?
Raw cotton fiber must be compressed into dense, uniform bales and wrapped in woven polypropylene or jute bagging, secured with steel strapping or wires, to withstand maritime handling. Bales must be kept dry and stowed away from shipboard contaminants like oils or chemicals, as moisture or contamination can severely degrade the fiber's quality and value upon arrival.
Are there any country-specific import restrictions for raw cotton (HTS 520100) entering the United States?
Yes, all raw cotton imported into the United States must be accompanied by an original phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin. Furthermore, raw cotton from certain countries may be subject to quarantine or require fumigation upon arrival to prevent the introduction of pests like the boll weevil.
Does the staple length of raw cotton fiber impact its classification under HTS 520100?
No, the staple length does not affect classification under HTS 5201.00. This subheading is for cotton, not carded or combed, regardless of whether it is short-staple or long-staple. The classification is based solely on the state of the fiber being raw and unprocessed beyond ginning.
Import Restrictions by Country
The import of raw cotton fiber (HTS 5201.00) is subject to specific restrictions in several key markets. China requires an import quota and an Automatic Import License for most cotton, with significant tariffs applied to out-of-quota shipments. The European Union imposes no tariff quota but strictly enforces phytosanitary requirements to prevent the introduction of pests like the pink bollworm. For imports into the United States, raw cotton from certain regions may be prohibited or require fumigation certificates due to quarantine pests, as per USDA-APHIS regulations (7 CFR 319).
Common Classification Mistakes for Raw Cotton Fiber (5201.00)
A frequent error is classifying ginned cotton (HTS 5201.00) with seed cotton (HTS 5201.00.20), which includes the unseparated seed and is subject to different duty rates. Another common mistake involves cleaned, carded, or combed cotton, which belongs in HTS heading 5203, not 5201. Do not confuse raw fiber with cotton linters (HTS 1404.20) or cotton waste (HTS 5202), which are classified separately. Ensure the cotton is not bleached, dyed, or otherwise processed beyond ginning, as this would move it out of chapter 52.
Related HS Codes
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