Wool; wool tops and other combed wool, in fragments

HS code 510521 covers wool tops and other combed wool in fragments. This industry is a critical component of the global textile and apparel supply chain, providing essential raw materials for the production of a wide range of wool-based products. Wool is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable fiber that is highly valued for its warmth, durability, and versatility, making it a popular choice for clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. The wool industry plays a significant role in the economies of major wool-producing countries, contributing to employment, exports, and economic growth.

The production of wool tops and other combed wool involves a series of processing steps. First, raw wool is sorted, cleaned, and scoured to remove impurities. The clean wool is then carded, a process that aligns the fibers and removes any remaining contaminants. The carded wool is then combed, which further straightens and aligns the fibers, creating a uniform and consistent product known as wool tops. These wool tops can be further processed into a variety of forms, such as yarn, fabric, or other wool-based products.

The main inputs required for the production of wool tops and other combed wool include raw wool, which is the primary raw material. Specialized machinery, such as carding and combing equipment, is also essential for the various processing steps. Additionally, energy sources, such as electricity or natural gas, are needed to power the production facilities, and water is required for the cleaning and scouring processes.

The primary output of HS code 510521 is wool tops and other combed wool in fragments, which are then consumed by various downstream industries. These include the 510510 Wool; carded or combed industry, which uses the wool tops to produce yarn, and the 510529 Wool; fine or coarse animal hair, carded or combed industry, which may incorporate the combed wool into their products. Additionally, the wool tops and fragments can be used in the production of 511211 Wool; woven fabrics, containing 85% or more by weight of wool or fine animal hair and other wool-based textiles and apparel.