5516 - Woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers:
Sub-classifications
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5516 1100
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5516 1200
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5516 1300 00
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5516 1400
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Overview
This HTS category, 5516, encompasses woven fabrics that are primarily composed of artificial staple fibers. Artificial staple fibers are short, discrete lengths of synthetic or regenerated fibers, manufactured by humans. These fabrics can be produced from a variety of artificial staple fibers, such as rayon (viscose), modal, acrylic, or polyester staple. The defining characteristic is that the warp and weft threads are constructed from these artificial staple fibers, resulting in textiles with distinct textures and properties.
Unlike other categories within Section XI (Textile and Textile Articles) that might cover raw materials, yarns, or made-up articles, 5516 specifically addresses the fabric construction. It is distinct from sibling categories such as those covering natural fibers (e.g., cotton or wool fabrics) or fabrics made solely from continuous man-made filaments. The focus here is on the woven structure and the material composition originating from artificial staple fibers.
The subcategories within 5516 provide further refinement based on the precise composition and the presence of other materials. These subdivisions are crucial for accurate classification, particularly when artificial staple fibers are blended with other textile fibers or filaments. The percentage by weight of artificial staple fibers and the nature of any accompanying fibers (man-made filaments, wool, fine animal hair, or cotton) are key determinative factors for selecting the most appropriate subheading.