63025100
OTHER MADE-UP TEXTILE ARTICLES; SETS; WORN CLOTHING AND WORN TEXTILE ARTICLES; RAGS›Bed linen, table linen, toilet linen and kitchen linen
Other table linen - Of cotton
Classification scope of cotton table linen
CN code 6302 51 covers table linen of cotton, not knitted or crocheted. This subheading includes tablecloths, napkins, runners and placemats of woven cotton fabric, whether bleached, dyed, printed or of dyed yarn. Classification requires the material to be woven and cotton to be the predominant fibre by weight. Cotton damask tablecloths, cotton napkins and embroidered runners on a cotton base are typical products. Notes to Chapter 63 define table linen as made-up textile articles intended for covering tables. Importers should distinguish table linen from other made-up textile articles for household use.
Regulations and product safety
Importing cotton table linen into the EU is subject to Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on labelling. REACH regulates chemicals used in production and finishing of cotton table linen. Dyes, finishing agents and waterproofing agents are subject to REACH restrictions. Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR) requires product safety. Table linen with stain-resistant finishes may contain fluorinated substances (PFAS), which are subject to increasing regulatory restrictions in the EU. Importers should verify that chemical finishes comply with current REACH requirements. Laboratory test reports are an important element of compliance documentation.
Trade and import procedures
MFN duty rates for cotton table linen under CN 6302 51 must be verified in the TARIC database. Preferential rates may be available under EU FTAs and the GSP scheme. Major suppliers include China, India, Pakistan and Turkey. Customs documentation includes the commercial invoice, transport document, fibre composition specification and proof of origin. Rules of origin for cotton textiles under FTAs typically require weaving and finishing in the country of origin. VAT applies on import.
Cotton table linen — EU classification CN 6302 51
Cotton table linen (tablecloths, serviettes, table runners) under CN 6302 51 carries a 12% EU duty. Cotton must account for at least 50% of fibre weight. Imports include both white hospitality tablecloths and decorative coloured articles. Fibre composition labelling is mandatory.
Frequently asked questions
What does cotton table linen under CN 6302 51 include?
CN 6302 51 covers tablecloths, napkins, runners and placemats of woven cotton fabric, whether bleached, dyed, printed or jacquard. Cotton must be the predominant fibre by weight. Knitted cotton table linen is classified under 6302 40. Table linen predominantly of synthetic fibres falls under 6302 53.
Are stain-resistant tablecloths subject to additional regulations?
Yes. Stain-resistant finishes may contain fluorinated substances (PFAS) or other chemicals subject to REACH restrictions. PFAS are under increasing regulatory scrutiny in the EU. Importers should verify the chemical composition of the finish and its compliance with current REACH restrictions, including the SVHC candidate list.
What rules of origin apply to cotton table linen?
Rules of origin for cotton table linen under EU FTAs typically require at least two processing stages in the country of origin, such as weaving and finishing or dyeing. Mere sewing from imported fabric is generally insufficient for preferential origin. Specific rules should be verified in the context of the applicable trade agreement.
What is the EU duty on cotton tablecloths CN 6302 51?
Cotton table linen under CN 6302 51 carries a 12% EU duty. GSP preferences may apply. Import VAT is charged on customs value plus duty.
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