5505.20.00.00 - Of artificial fibers

This HTS category, 5505.20.00.00, specifically covers waste materials, including noils, yarn waste, and garnetted stock, that are derived from artificial fibers. Artificial fibers are typically manufactured through a process of dissolving natural raw materials, such as cellulose, and then regenerating them into fibers. Examples of materials that would fall under this heading include waste from the production or processing of rayon, modal, or viscose fibers, regardless of their form (e.g., loose fibers, tangled masses, or remnants of yarn).

This category is distinguished from its sibling category, 5505.10.00, which covers similar waste materials but exclusively from synthetic fibers. Synthetic fibers, in contrast to artificial fibers, are manufactured directly from chemical compounds like polymers. Therefore, the key differentiating factor lies in the origin and manufacturing process of the base fiber. Waste from regenerated cellulose fibers is classified here, while waste from polymers like polyester or nylon would be classified under 5505.10.00.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories for this specific code. Classification decisions within 5505.20.00.00 will therefore rely on confirming that the waste originates from artificial fibers, as defined in Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System. Proper identification of the precursor fiber type is crucial for accurate classification.