5208.51 - Plain weave, weighing not more than 100 g/m²:

This HTS category, 5208.51, specifically classifies printed woven fabrics of cotton that contain 85 percent or more by weight of cotton and have a weight not exceeding 100 grams per square meter. The defining characteristics are the presence of a print on the fabric surface, the high cotton content, and a lightweight construction. This encompasses a wide array of finished textiles suitable for apparel, home furnishings, and other applications where a light, printed cotton fabric is desired.

It is crucial to differentiate this category from its siblings. Category 5208.52 also covers printed woven cotton fabrics of at least 85% cotton, but it applies to those weighing *more than* 100 grams per square meter. Therefore, the key distinction for 5208.51 is its more restrictive weight limit. Category 5208.59, on the other hand, covers printed woven cotton fabrics that do not fall under the plain weave construction of 5208.51 or 5208.52, or that are not otherwise specified within the broader woven fabric classifications.

Within this classification, a further subdivision exists to distinguish between certified hand-loomed fabrics (5208.51.20.00) and all other printed woven cotton fabrics meeting the specified criteria. This distinction is important for specific trade agreements or preferential tariff treatments that may apply to hand-loomed goods. The "Other" subcategory then captures the vast majority of machine-produced printed, lightweight cotton woven fabrics.