SMS Nonwoven Polypropylene SMS Fabric from Japan
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 — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
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