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54072000
MAN-MADE FILAMENTS; STRIP AND THE LIKE OF MAN-MADE TEXTILE MATERIALSWoven fabrics of synthetic filament yarn, including woven fabrics obtained from materials of heading 5404

Woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like

Characteristics and tariff classification

CN code 540720 covers woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like of synthetic materials, including polypropylene and polyethylene. These fabrics are produced by interlacing strips with a width of up to five millimetres and find wide application in bag manufacturing, industrial packaging, geotextiles, and construction materials. Polypropylene strip fabrics are a fundamental material for producing bulk bags (FIBC) and sacks for grain, fertilisers, and building materials. Classification requires confirmation that the fabric is made from synthetic strips rather than multifilament yarn, which determines assignment to the appropriate subheading. Area weight and weave density affect performance properties but not tariff classification.

Regulatory requirements and quality standards

Woven fabrics from synthetic strips imported into the EU are subject to REACH regarding chemical substances. Fabrics intended for construction applications, such as geotextiles, may be subject to the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and require CE marking and a declaration of performance. Fabrics for food packaging must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 on food contact materials. GPSR imposes general safety requirements on consumer products. Strip fabrics for bulk bag production should comply with ISO 21898 or equivalent industry standards for strength and operational safety.

Customs procedures and import guidance

The customs declaration for fabric imports under CN code 540720 should include information on polymer type, strip width, area weight, weave type, and commercial purpose. Customs authorities may take samples to confirm the fabric is made from strips rather than multifilament yarn. Importers should check current duty rates and trade measures in TARIC, including any anti-dumping duties on fabrics from specific countries. Preferential duty rates are available under FTA agreements provided rules of origin are met. Fabrics imported for further processing may qualify for the inward processing procedure.

Classification of synthetic monofilaments and strips CN 5407 20

Woven fabrics from synthetic strip CN 5407 20 covers products from synthetic polymers in filament or strip form. Classification depends on the base polymer (polyester, nylon, elastomer) and cross-section. Import into the EU is subject to conventional customs duty and import VAT. Raw material composition labelling is required.

Frequently asked questions

What are the uses of fabrics under code 540720?
Woven synthetic strip fabrics are mainly used in producing industrial sacks, bulk bags, geotextiles, tarpaulins, construction materials, and packaging. Polypropylene strip fabrics are one of the most important packaging materials in the agricultural, construction, and chemical sectors.
Do geotextile fabrics under code 540720 require CE marking?
Yes, geotextiles used in construction are subject to the CPR and require CE marking based on harmonised standard EN 13249 or similar standards. The producer or importer must prepare a declaration of performance and ensure compliance with technical requirements.
How to distinguish strip fabric from multifilament yarn fabric?
Strip fabric is made from flat, narrow polymer tapes visible to the naked eye as separate elements. Multifilament yarn fabric is made from many thin filaments twisted into a thread. The difference is usually visible macroscopically, but customs authorities may conduct laboratory analysis for confirmation.
What is the EU duty on woven fabrics from synthetic strip CN 5407 20?
Woven fabrics from synthetic strip under CN 5407 20 is subject to conventional EU customs duty and import VAT. Check the rate in TARIC. Fibre composition labelling per EU 1007/2011 is mandatory.