51091000
WOOL, FINE OR COARSE ANIMAL HAIR; HORSEHAIR YARN AND WOVEN FABRIC›Yarn of wool or of fine animal hair, put up for retail sale
Containing 85 % or more by weight of wool or of fine animal hair
Subcodes (2)
Tariff classification and product characteristics
CN code 510910 covers yarn of combed (worsted) wool or fine animal hair, containing 85 percent or more by weight of wool or fine animal hair, put up for retail sale. Worsted yarn is distinguished by its smooth, firm structure achieved through combing, which removes short fibres and aligns the remaining long fibres in parallel. These yarns are used primarily in hand and machine knitting for garments such as sweaters, scarves, hats and decorative knitwear. Classification requires the yarn to be put up for retail sale within the meaning of Note 4 to Chapter 51 of the Combined Nomenclature. Importers must accurately verify the fibre composition, as blended yarns with wool content below 85 percent fall under different tariff codes.
Regulatory requirements for labelling and chemical safety
Wool worsted yarn imported into the EU must comply with Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on textile fibre names and labelling. Each retail package must display the fibre composition expressed as percentages using fibre names listed in Annex I. The designation virgin wool or new wool may only be used for wool that has not previously been incorporated into a finished product. REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 restricts certain chemical substances in textile articles, including azo dyes releasing aromatic amines above 30 mg/kg, formaldehyde and chromium VI. The GPSR (EU 2023/988) on general product safety requires importers to ensure the product poses no risk to consumers. Compliance documentation including laboratory test reports should be maintained by the economic operator.
Trade aspects and customs documentation
When importing worsted wool yarn under CN code 510910, the customs declaration should include a precise description specifying fibre composition, linear density and form of retail packaging. A certificate of origin is essential for claiming preferential tariff rates under EU free trade agreements or the GSP scheme. Yarn originating from GSP beneficiary countries may qualify for reduced duties subject to rules of origin compliance. Exporters should verify whether the destination country applies quantitative restrictions or specific certification requirements for wool products. Customs authorities may request laboratory verification of fibre composition, particularly for high-value wool and fine animal hair yarns. Commercial documentation should include the pro forma invoice, technical specification and packing list.
Classification of wool yarn and customs requirements CN 5109 10
Wool yarn CN 5109 10 is classified by spinning method (worsted or carded), thickness, and composition. Importing wool yarn into the EU is subject to conventional customs duty and import VAT. Pure wool and blended yarns may have different duty rates. Correct fibre composition labelling is required. Importers must ensure correct fibre composition labelling under EU Regulation 1007/2011. Current duty rates are available in the TARIC database for verification.
Frequently asked questions
How is worsted yarn distinguished from woollen yarn for tariff purposes?
Worsted yarn has a smooth surface with fibres aligned in parallel, produced through combing. Woollen yarn is softer and bulkier, made from shorter fibres without the combing process. For customs classification, the manufacturing technology determines the heading, not subjective assessment of appearance. Producer documentation confirming the spinning method is the key evidence.
Does merino wool yarn fall under CN code 510910?
Yes, provided it is combed (worsted) yarn containing at least 85 percent merino wool and put up for retail sale. Merino is classified as sheep wool under Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011. The critical requirement is that the yarn meets the retail put-up criteria of Note 4 to Chapter 51 of the Combined Nomenclature.
What labelling requirements apply to wool yarn in the EU?
Labels must show the percentage fibre composition in the official language of the country of sale, as required by Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011. Fibre names from Annex I must be used. The term virgin wool requires that the fibre has not been previously processed into a finished article. Labels must be securely attached to the product or packaging and legible for consumers.
What is the EU duty on worsted yarn of wool for retail CN 5109 10?
Worsted yarn of wool for retail under CN 5109 10 is subject to conventional EU customs duty and import VAT. Check the rate in TARIC. Fibre composition labelling per EU 1007/2011 is mandatory.
Useful tools & resources
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