Neoprene-Coated Polyester Knitted Wetsuit Fabric from Japan
Knitted from man-made polyester and coated with neoprene (synthetic rubber) comprising over 70% by weight, this fabric is used for flexible wetsuits and dive gear. Classified in 5906.91.20.00 due to its rubberized knitted construction of man-made fibers exceeding the weight threshold. The coating is visible and bonds to the textile base as per heading 5906 definitions.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Conduct material composition analysis to prove >70% rubber content; include manufacturing process details showing knitted base
• Avoid pitfalls by distinguishing from solid neoprene sheets (Chapter 40)
• Ensure invoices specify 'knitted rubberized fabric' not 'foam sheet'