5309 - Woven fabrics of flax:
Sub-classifications
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5309 1100
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5309 1900
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Overview
Category 5309 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) encompasses woven fabrics manufactured primarily from flax. Flax, derived from the stem of the flax plant, is a natural fiber known for its strength, absorbency, and characteristic texture, often used in the production of durable and breathable textiles. These fabrics can range from fine linens suitable for apparel and home furnishings to coarser weaves used for industrial purposes.
This classification is situated within Chapter 53, which deals with other vegetable textile fibers, paper yarn, and woven fabrics of paper yarn. It is therefore distinct from categories covering fibers other than flax, or woven fabrics made from different vegetable sources or paper. The "sibling" categories at the root level of the HTS, such as live animals (Chapters 01), are entirely separate and deal with unrelated goods, highlighting the specific focus of Section XI on textiles.
Within HTS code 5309, further classification is determined by the flax content. The subcategories differentiate between fabrics containing 85 percent or more by weight of flax, and those containing less than 85 percent by weight of flax. This distinction is crucial for customs purposes, as it reflects variations in the material composition and potentially the intended use or value of the woven fabric.