Polylactic Acid Filament Tow for Biodegradable Textiles
Polylactic acid (PLA) filament tow, a bio-based synthetic filament tow for eco-friendly staple fibres in compostable products. PLA is a synthetic polyester; as such, this tow meeting Chapter 55 Note 1 specifications is classified under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow.
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 tow is cut to staple fibres of length ≤2 m
PLA staple fibres would be classified as polyester staple fibres under heading 55.03.
If the material is in primary form (pellets, granules), not tow
PLA in primary forms is classified under heading 39.07 as polyesters.
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
• Confirm the PLA tow is drawn and meets the specifications in Chapter Note 1
• Since PLA is bio-based, check if the product qualifies for any environmental certification that may affect market access
• Maintain detailed product data sheets for CBSA classification verification
Related Products under Tariff item 5501.90.00
High-Denier Polyester Tow for Stuffing
High-denier polyester filament tow, conjugated and hollow, designed for thermal bonding into pillow and furniture stuffing. This synthetic filament tow meets the specifications of Chapter 55 Note 1, including length exceeding 2 m, twist less than 5 turns per metre, and total measurement over 20,000 decitex, and is not covered by more specific headings, thus falling under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow.
Nylon 6 Filament Tow for Carpet Manufacturing
High-tenacity nylon 6 filament tow for carpet manufacturing, designed for conversion into fibres for carpet backing and pile yarns. This synthetic filament tow meets the Chapter 55 Note 1 criteria and, being nylon (a polyamide) not specifically covered elsewhere, is classified under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow.
PET Filament Tow for Bottle Recycling Fiber
PET filament tow from recycled sources, converted to fibre for apparel and filling applications. The recycled content does not affect classification; as a polyester synthetic filament tow meeting Chapter 55 Note 1, it falls under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow.
Polyamide 66 Filament Tow for Tire Cord
High-strength polyamide 66 filament tow for industrial tire cord and reinforcement yarns. This nylon 66 synthetic filament tow meets Chapter 55 Note 1 criteria and, not being covered by more specific headings, is classified under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow.
Polyester Filament Tow for Staple Fiber Production
Polyester filament tow for staple fibre production, cut into staple fibres for spinning into yarn. This continuous synthetic filament tow meets Chapter 55 Note 1 specifications and is classified under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow, distinct from acrylic or modacrylic types.
Polypropylene Filament Tow for Nonwoven Fabrics
Polypropylene filament tow, crimped for direct conversion into nonwoven fabrics like geotextiles and medical wipes. This synthetic filament tow meets Chapter 55 Note 1 specifications and is classified under tariff item 5501.90.00 as 'Other' synthetic filament tow, as polypropylene is not covered by more specific headings.