Mesta Tow
Mesta tow consists of short fiber tow from the mesta plant (Hibiscus sabdariffa/cannabinus), a jute substitute processed for paper and coarse yarn. This product is processed but not spun, and it falls under the tariff item as tow of 'other' textile bast fibers, since mesta is not explicitly excluded.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the mesta is in the form of raw fiber, not tow
Raw mesta fiber is classified under heading 5305 for other vegetable textile fibers.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Document the plant species and processing stage to support classification as 'other' bast fiber
• Ensure the tow is not spun or twisted
• Verify if the tow is considered waste or a primary product, as this may affect the tariff item
Related Products under Tariff item 5303.90.00
Abaca Waste Tow
Abaca waste tow consists of short fibers and remnants from processing abaca (Manila hemp) plants, cleaned and prepared but not spun into yarn. Although abaca is a leaf fiber, this tow is classified under 'other' textile bast fibers' tow and waste when it is processed but unspun, as it is not explicitly excluded by the chapter notes.
Bast Fiber Blended Tow
Bast fiber blended tow is a mixture of jute and kenaf fibers, processed and cleaned but not spun, used as a raw material for coarse yarns or stuffing. It falls under this tariff item as 'other' tow and waste of textile bast fibers, since it is not a single fiber type and is not excluded by the notes.
Bimli Bast Fiber
Processed bimli (Hibiscus cannabinus variant) bast fibers from India, unspun and used in high-strength twine and nets. These fibers are raw or processed but not spun, placing them under the 'other' category of jute and textile bast fibres.
Coir Fiber Waste
Coir fiber waste tow, unspun, derived from coconut husks. Though coir is a fruit fiber, this waste tow is classified under 'other' bast fibres when presented as tow or waste, as it is not spun and fits the residual category.
Hessian Jute Tow
Hessian jute tow comprises short fiber remnants and waste generated during the processing of jute for hessian (burlap) fabric. These fibers are cleaned but remain unspun, making them suitable for stuffing or low-grade yarn production. This product is explicitly covered by the tariff item's inclusion of tow and waste of jute bast fibers.
Jute Roving
Jute roving is a soft, loose strand of processed jute fibers that has been drawn out but not twisted into yarn, serving as an intermediate material for spinning. This product falls under the tariff item as processed jute bast fiber that is not spun, meeting the heading's scope for raw or processed fibers.