5205.21.00 - Not exceeding 14 nm

This HTS category, 5205.21.00, specifically classifies single cotton yarns spun from combed fibers that are not put up for retail sale and contain 85 percent or more cotton by weight. The defining characteristic of this yarn is its fineness, measured in "nm" (number metric). This subcategory encompasses yarns where the fineness does not exceed 14 nm, indicating a relatively coarser yarn when compared to other categories within 5205.2.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, such as 5205.22.00 (exceeding 14 nm but not exceeding 43 nm) or 5205.23.00 (exceeding 43 nm but not exceeding 52 nm), relies solely on the measured fineness of the yarn. Yarns falling under 5205.21.00 are exclusively those with a metric number of 14 nm or less. Other categories, like those measured in decitex (e.g., 5205.26.00 and 5205.27.00), represent a different method of yarn measurement and different fineness ranges, further delineating the scope of classification.

The subcategories under 5205.21.00, namely 5205.21.00.20 (Ring spun) and 5205.21.00.90 (Other), provide further specificity based on the spinning method. Ring spun yarn is produced using a ring spinning machine, typically resulting in a stronger, more uniform yarn. "Other" encompasses yarns spun by methods other than ring spinning, such as open-end spinning. This distinction allows for more granular data collection and specific trade analysis.