Gum-Coated Book Cover Cloth from Germany
Woven cotton fabric coated with gum or starch to provide stiffness and durability, specifically used for outer covers of hardcover books. This falls under HTS 5901.90.40.00 as a textile fabric coated with amylaceous substances for bookbinding purposes. The coating is visible and enhances printability and foldability.
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
• Verify the coating is gum or starch-based via lab testing, as misclassification to uncoated fabrics is common
• Provide documentation proving end-use for book covers to avoid reclassification
• Ensure fabric weight and stiffness meet 'stiffened textile' criteria per chapter notes