5514.42.00.40 - Napped (617)

This classification pertains to woven fabrics manufactured from synthetic staple fibers, specifically those containing less than 85% by weight of these synthetic fibers, with cotton being the primary or sole co-mingled fiber. The fabric must also exceed a weight of 170 grams per square meter. The specific subcategory here, "Napped," indicates that the surface of the fabric has undergone a finishing process that raises a pile or nap, creating a soft, fuzzy texture.

The key distinguishing feature of this category is the "napped" finish. It is differentiated from its sibling category, 5514.42.00.20 ("Not napped"), by the presence or absence of this raised surface treatment. While both share the same fiber composition, weight, and weave structure (3-thread or 4-thread twill, including cross twill, of polyester staple fibers), the tactile and visual characteristics are distinct due to the napping process.

As this classification represents a leaf node in the HTS, there are no further subdivisions. Therefore, the focus for classification within this specific code remains on verifying that the fabric meets all the preceding criteria: being woven, containing synthetic staple fibers mixed mainly or solely with cotton (under 85% synthetic), exceeding 170 g/m², being printed, and possessing a 3-thread or 4-thread twill structure. The final determinant for this particular code is the presence of a napped surface finish.