52085200
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
Classification of printed cotton fabrics
CN code 520852 covers printed woven cotton fabrics in three-thread or four-thread twill, including cross twill, containing 85 percent or more by weight of cotton, weighing not more than 200 g/m2. Printing involves applying a pattern or design to the fabric surface by screen printing, rotary printing, digital printing or other techniques. These fabrics are widely used for women's apparel, shirts, dresses and decorative items. Classification requires confirmation of the printing process, twill weave, composition and surface mass.
Chemical requirements for printed fabrics
Printed fabrics are subject to safety requirements for both the dyes used in printing and the auxiliary substances in the printing process. REACH Regulation prohibits azo dyes above 30 mg/kg aromatic amines. Printing pastes may contain formaldehyde, plasticisers and solvents subject to restrictions. Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 requires fibre composition labelling. Printing does not change classification with respect to fibre composition. The GPSR Regulation (EU 2023/988) imposes safety obligations on importers.
Trade and import documentation
Importing fabrics under CN code 520852 requires a customs declaration describing the print, twill weave, composition and weight. Customs authorities verify that printing is not confused with dyeing or yarn-dyed weaving. Major exporters include India, China, Turkey and Pakistan. Tariff preferences may be available depending on country of origin. Documentation should include invoices, technical specifications with print pattern description, certificates of origin and chemical test reports.
Importing cotton fabrics – weave and weight CN 5208 52
Cotton fabrics CN 5208 52 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 printing from patterned weaving?
Printing applies colour to the finished fabric creating a pattern visible more clearly on the face side. Patterned weaving creates designs through weave variation or use of different coloured yarns, visible on both sides. Examination under magnification can definitively distinguish both processes for customs classification purposes.
Is digital printing on cotton classified as printing for tariff purposes?
Yes, digital printing is recognised as printing under the Combined Nomenclature. All methods of applying patterns to the fabric surface, including digital, screen, rotary and transfer printing, are classified as printing for tariff purposes.
Are pigment and reactive prints classified the same way?
Yes, both print types are classified identically for tariff purposes as printed fabrics. The difference relates to printing technology, not customs classification. However, pigment and reactive prints may differ in REACH chemical requirements regarding the specific substances used in the process.
What is the EU duty on printed cotton twill weave fabric CN 5208 52?
Printed cotton twill weave fabric under CN 5208 52 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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