Silk; yarn (other than yarn spun from silk waste), not put up for retail sale

HS code 500400 covers the trade of silk yarn, excluding yarn spun from silk waste, that is not packaged for retail sale. This industry plays a vital role in the global textile and apparel supply chain, providing a key raw material for the production of high-quality fabrics and garments. Silk yarn is renowned for its luxurious sheen, softness, and durability, making it a sought-after commodity in both domestic and international markets.

The production of silk yarn involves a multi-step process. First, silk cocoons are harvested and the raw silk fibers are extracted through a process called reeling. These individual silk filaments are then twisted and plied together to form the final silk yarn. Depending on the desired characteristics, the yarn may undergo additional processing, such as dyeing or finishing, before being woven or knitted into fabric.

The primary input for the silk yarn industry is the raw silk fiber, which is obtained from the cocoons of the silkworm (Bombyx mori). Other key inputs include specialized machinery for reeling, twisting, and plying the silk filaments, as well as dyes, lubricants, and other chemicals used in the finishing process. The industry also relies on a skilled workforce, particularly in the manual aspects of silk production.

The primary output of HS code 500400 is silk yarn, which is then consumed by the 500700 Woven fabrics of silk or of silk waste and 611000 Knitted or crocheted fabrics industries to produce a wide range of high-end textile products, such as apparel, home furnishings, and accessories. The silk yarn industry also generates byproducts, such as silk waste, which can be further processed and utilized in the production of 500300 (Silk waste (including cocoons unsuitable for reeling, yarn waste and garnetted stock)) and other silk-based products.