5603 - Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated:
Sub-classifications
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5603 1100
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5603 14
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Overview
HTS Code 5603 encompasses a broad range of nonwoven textile materials. These materials are characterized by being manufactured by processes that entangle fibers or filaments, rather than by weaving or knitting. This category includes nonwovens that have undergone further treatments such as impregnation with resins or chemicals, coating with polymers, covering with other materials, or lamination with additional layers. The key defining feature is the lack of a woven or knitted structure, regardless of these subsequent modifications.
Distinguishing 5603 from its sibling categories at the Section XI level requires an understanding of textile manufacturing processes. Unlike woven fabrics (Chapter 50-55) which are created by interlacing warp and weft yarns, or knitted fabrics (Chapter 60) formed by interlocking loops of yarn, nonwovens are produced by bonding or interlocking fibers. This category is distinct from Chapters 57-63, which cover finished textile articles, carpets, and other made-up textile articles.
Within HTS 5603, further classification is based on the constituent material of the nonwoven. The subcategories "Of man-made filaments" and "Other" allow for a detailed breakdown. The former specifically addresses nonwovens where the primary component is continuous synthetic or artificial filaments, while the latter encompasses nonwovens made from staple fibers (natural or man-made) or other filament structures not meeting the criteria for the first subcategory. This distinction is crucial for determining applicable duties and trade statistics.