53091100
OTHER VEGETABLE TEXTILE FIBRES; PAPER YARN AND WOVEN FABRICS OF PAPER YARN›Woven fabrics of flax
Containing 85 % or more by weight of flax - Unbleached or bleached
Classification of unbleached flax fabrics
CN code 530911 covers woven fabrics of flax, containing 85 percent or more by weight of flax, unbleached or bleached. Unbleached flax fabrics retain the natural fibre colour, while bleached fabrics have undergone chemical removal of natural colouration. Flax is valued for strength, absorbency and thermoregulatory properties. These fabrics are used for table linen, bed linen, apparel and technical materials. Classification requires confirmation of composition with minimum 85 percent flax and processing state as unbleached or bleached.
Regulations and labelling requirements
Flax fabrics imported into the EU are subject to Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on labelling. The name linen is protected. REACH Regulation governs substances from retting and bleaching processes. Formaldehyde from finishing is restricted to 75 mg/kg for skin-contact fabrics. Azo dyes do not apply to unbleached fabrics but apply upon subsequent dyeing. The GPSR Regulation (EU 2023/988) requires product safety.
Trade and documentation
Importing fabrics under code 530911 requires a customs declaration with fabric description, composition, weight and processing state. Belgium, France, Poland, China and Belarus are major producers. Tariff preferences depend on country of origin. Documentation includes invoice, technical specification and certificate of origin.
Importing vegetable fibres and natural textiles CN 5309 11
Woven flax fabric unbleached CN 5309 11 represents a category of natural vegetable fibres. Classification depends on fibre type (flax, jute, coir, hemp), degree of processing, and intended use. Import into the EU is subject to conventional customs duty and import VAT. Preferences may apply for certain developing countries.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between unbleached and bleached flax fabric?
Unbleached fabric retains the natural greyish or cream colour of flax. Bleached fabric has undergone chemical removal of natural colouration to achieve a white colour. Both processing states are classified under the same code 530911. Dyed flax fabrics are classified under a separate code.
Is Poland a flax producer?
Yes, Poland has a tradition of flax cultivation and processing, though production is smaller than Belgium and France. Poland specialises mainly in oilseed flax but also produces fibre flax. Polish-made flax fabrics benefit from free movement of goods within the EU.
What are the main uses of unbleached flax fabrics?
Unbleached flax fabrics are used as a base for further processing such as dyeing and printing, for natural-style garments, table linen, bed linen, tablecloths and napkins. Technical flax fabrics serve as base materials for laminates and composites. Unbleached flax is valued for its authentic appearance.
What is the EU duty on woven flax fabric unbleached CN 5309 11?
Woven flax fabric unbleached under CN 5309 11 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
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Containing 85|% or more by weight of flax - Unbleached or bleached" and see the full import cost.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Containing 85|% or more by weight of flax - Unbleached or bleached" with all costs included.
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