Cotton; not carded or combed

HS code 520100 covers raw, unprocessed cotton that has not undergone carding or combing. Cotton is a vital natural fiber that plays a crucial role in the global textile and apparel industry. As one of the most widely cultivated and traded agricultural commodities, raw cotton serves as a key input for a vast array of downstream products, from clothing and home textiles to industrial applications.

The production of raw cotton begins with the cultivation and harvesting of cotton plants. After the cotton bolls are picked, the cotton fibers are separated from the seeds through a process called ginning. This mechanical process removes the seeds, leaves, and other impurities, resulting in the clean, unprocessed cotton fibers that are classified under HS code 520100.

The primary inputs for the production of raw cotton under HS code 520100 are the cotton plants themselves, which require suitable growing conditions such as warm temperatures, adequate rainfall, and well-drained soil. Additionally, the cultivation process may involve the use of agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, and various agrochemicals like fertilizers and pesticides to ensure optimal plant growth and yield.

The primary output of HS code 520100 is raw, unprocessed cotton fibers. These fibers are then typically consumed by industries classified under other HS codes, such as 520200 Cotton; carded or combed, 520300 (Cotton; waste (including pulled or garnetted rags)), and various textile manufacturing codes, where the cotton is further processed, spun, and woven or knitted into a wide range of textile products.