SMS Nonwoven Polypropylene SMS Fabric from Germany
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 — Germany → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.3910%Section 301 (forced labor) — European Union member state (col1 rate < 10 percent): MFN < 10% → total duty capped at 10%
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