Polyester Staple Fiber for Nonwoven Fabrics from China
Carded polyester staple fibers optimized for needle-punching into nonwovens, typically 15-51mm lengths. HTS 5506.20.00.00 covers these processed polyester synthetics for spinning or felting applications.
Duty Rate — China → United States
43.2%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.3112.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
9903.88.0325%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.13, 9903.88.18, 9903.88.33, 9903.88.34, 9903.88.35, 9903.88.36, 9903.88.37, 9903.88.38, 9903.88.40, 9903.88.41, 9903.88.43, 9903.88.45, 9903.88.46, 9903.88.48, 9903.88.56, 9903.88.64, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(e) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(f)
Import Tips
• Label intended end-use (nonwoven vs. spinning) as it affects potential reclassification during audits
• Test for crimp percentage; high-crimp fibers for nonwovens must still meet staple processing criteria
• Avoid bundling with finished nonwoven fabric to prevent set classification under Chapter 56