SMS Nonwoven Polypropylene SMS Fabric from China
SMS (spunbond-meltblown-spunbond) nonwoven fabric from polypropylene filaments, 18 g/m², ideal for surgical masks and filters. Classified under HTS 5603.11.00 for lightweight man-made filament nonwovens without disqualifying plastic lamination. The meltblown layer bonds fibers internally without visible external coating.
Duty Rate — China → United States
37.5%
Rate breakdown
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)
9903.05.3112.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 12.5% ad valorem on products of China
Import Tips
• Document SMS production process to prove nonwoven status; distinguish from laminated products
• Ensure grammage testing confirms ≤25 g/m²; overweight shipments may incur higher duties under 5603.12
• Avoid pitfall of declaring as 'plastic film' if minimal meltblown; naked eye test per chapter notes is key