Silk; raw silk (not thrown)

HS code 500200 covers raw silk, which is the unprocessed, natural fiber obtained from the cocoons of silkworms. The silk industry is a vital part of the global textile and apparel supply chain, providing a high-quality, natural fiber that is in demand for its softness, luster, and durability. Raw silk production is concentrated in a few key regions, making it an important export commodity for those economies.

The production of raw silk involves several key steps. First, silkworms are reared and fed a diet of mulberry leaves. As the worms mature, they spin cocoons, which are then harvested. The cocoons are then boiled or steamed to kill the pupae inside, and the silk filaments are carefully unwound and processed into raw silk. This raw silk is then graded, sorted, and prepared for export or further processing into spun silk yarns and fabrics.

The primary inputs for raw silk production are the silkworms themselves, as well as the mulberry leaves that serve as their food source. Specialized equipment is also required, such as trays or frames to hold the cocoons during the harvesting and unwinding process. Additionally, access to skilled labor is crucial, as the handling and processing of the delicate silk filaments requires significant expertise.

The main output of HS code 500200 is raw, unprocessed silk. This raw silk is then typically consumed by industries covered under other HS codes, such as 500300 Silk; silk waste, carded or combed and 500400 Silk; silk yarn, not put up for retail sale, which further process the silk into yarns, fabrics, and other textile products.