52082200
COTTON›Woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85 % or more by weight of cotton, weighing not more than 200 g/m²
Plain weave, weighing more than 100 g/m²
Subcodes (4)
Product characteristics and tariff classification
CN code 520822 covers bleached woven cotton fabrics in plain weave, containing 85 percent or more by weight of cotton, weighing not more than 200 g/m2. Plain weave is the simplest and most common form of weaving, with weft and warp interlacing alternately. Bleaching removes the natural colour of raw cotton through chemical processes, giving the fabric a uniform white appearance. These fabrics are used as base materials for printing and dyeing, as well as finished fabrics for bed linen, garments and medical textiles. Classification requires verification of fibre composition, surface mass, weave type and confirmation of the bleaching process.
Regulatory requirements and chemical safety
Bleached cotton fabrics are subject to particular scrutiny for residual chemicals from the bleaching process. REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 governs the use of hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite and other bleaching agents in textile processes. Residual active chlorine and organohalogen compounds must be within permissible limits. Formaldehyde from finishing processes is restricted to 75 mg/kg for skin-contact fabrics. Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 requires fibre composition labelling. The GPSR Regulation (EU 2023/988) requires importers to ensure product safety and maintain compliance documentation.
Trade and customs formalities
Importing bleached cotton fabrics under CN code 520822 requires a customs declaration specifying composition, surface mass, width, weave and confirmation of the bleaching process. India, China, Pakistan and Bangladesh are major exporters of bleached cotton fabrics. Preferential tariff rates may be available under the GSP, GSP+ or free trade agreements. Importers should verify available preferences in the TARIC system. Commercial documentation includes the invoice, technical specification, certificate of origin and packing list. Customs authorities may verify the bleaching process and composition through laboratory testing of samples.
Importing cotton fabrics – weave and weight CN 5208 22
Cotton fabrics CN 5208 22 are classified by weave (plain, twill, satin), weight per square metre, and treatment (unbleached, bleached, dyed, printed). Import into the EU is subject to conventional customs duty and import VAT. Fibre composition labelling under EU 1007/2011 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 to distinguish bleached from unbleached fabric for classification?
Bleached fabric has a uniformly white colour achieved through chemical processing, while unbleached fabric retains the natural cream or greyish colour of raw cotton. The degree of processing affects tariff classification, as heading 5208 distinguishes between unbleached, bleached, dyed and printed fabrics. Manufacturer documentation confirming the bleaching process is essential.
Is plain weave required for code 520822?
Yes, code 520822 applies exclusively to bleached cotton fabrics in plain weave. Bleached fabrics in twill weave are classified under code 520823, and those in satin weave under the relevant subheading. Correct identification of the weave type is essential for tariff classification.
Which bleaching agents are permissible in the EU?
The EU permits bleaching cotton with hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite and peracetic acid, provided chemical residues in the finished product are within REACH limits. Active chlorine should be below detection limits. Optical brightening with fluorescent whitening agents is subject to separate restrictions.
What is the EU duty on bleached cotton plain weave fabric CN 5208 22?
Bleached cotton plain weave fabric under CN 5208 22 is subject to conventional EU customs duty and import VAT. Check the rate in TARIC. Fibre composition labelling per EU 1007/2011 is mandatory.
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