Flax; raw or retted, but not spun

HS code 530110 covers raw or retted flax, a natural fiber that has been an important agricultural and industrial commodity for centuries. Flax is a versatile plant, with its fibers used in the production of textiles, paper, and other products. The global flax industry plays a significant role in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, contributing to economic activity and employment worldwide.

The production of raw or retted flax involves several key steps. First, the flax plants are harvested, typically by pulling them from the ground. The plants are then allowed to ret, or decompose, which separates the fibers from the woody stem. This can be done through natural retting, where the plants are exposed to moisture and microorganisms, or through chemical retting processes. Once retted, the flax fibers are cleaned and prepared for further processing, such as spinning into yarn or use in other applications.

The primary input for the production of raw or retted flax is the flax plant itself. Flax cultivation requires suitable climate and soil conditions, as well as access to water for the retting process. Additionally, specialized machinery and equipment may be needed for harvesting, retting, and fiber preparation. Labor is also a significant input, as much of the production process can be labor-intensive.

The primary output of HS code 530110 is raw or retted flax fibers. These fibers can be used as a raw material for the production of 530121 Flax, broken, scutched, hackled or otherwise processed, but not spun, 530129 Flax, processed but not spun, and 530130 Flax tow and waste, which are covered by other HS codes. The flax fibers may also be spun into yarn or used in the manufacture of various textile products, such as linen fabrics.