5516.11.00 - Unbleached or bleached

This HTS category, 5516.11.00, specifically classifies woven fabrics that are predominantly composed of artificial staple fibers, containing 85 percent or more by weight of these fibers. The key characteristic of fabrics within this subheading is their unbleached or bleached state. This means the fabric has either not undergone any dyeing or finishing processes to impart color, or it has only been treated to remove natural impurities or color, preparing it for subsequent dyeing or printing.

This classification is distinct from its sibling categories based on the fabric's coloration. While 5516.11.00 covers unbleached or bleached fabrics, 5516.12.00 pertains to fabrics that have been dyed a uniform color. Furthermore, 5516.13.00.00 distinguishes fabrics woven from yarns of different colors, creating a pattern inherent in the weave itself, and 5516.14.00 encompasses fabrics that have been printed with designs. The decision between these categories hinges directly on the finishing process applied to the fabric.

Within the unbleached or bleached category (5516.11.00), further subdivision is provided to account for different weave structures. Subcategory 5516.11.00.10 covers plain weave fabrics, characterized by a simple interlacing of warp and weft threads. 5516.11.00.20 addresses satin weave or twill weave fabrics, which exhibit distinct surface appearances due to their more complex interlacing patterns. The residual subcategory, 5516.11.00.90, serves as a catch-all for any other weave structures not specifically listed.