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Customs Clearance of All Types of Cotton in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)
Customs clearance of all types of cotton: Cotton is one of the most widely used and strategic raw materials in the world and, due to its broad use across industries especially textiles, hygiene, and healthcare has significant importance. Beyond its pivotal role in apparel and textile production, it is also used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and even food industries. Iran, as a country with an extensive textile sector, relies heavily on cotton imports and annually brings in large volumes from various countries. However, importing and clearing cotton through customs given the specific characteristics of the product and sanitary/agricultural sensitivities requires adherence to particular principles and regulations.
To estimate the time and cost of cotton clearance (raw, combed, carded, medical, …), contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant Free Consultation1) Specialized Uses of Cotton
Thanks to its unique physical and chemical properties, cotton holds an important position across many industries. Key specialized uses include:
Textile Industry: Cotton is the primary raw material for producing all kinds of fabrics, yarns, and garments. Its high moisture absorption, softness, and strength make it one of the best raw materials for apparel. Given the development of Iran’s textile industry, there is a strong need to import cotton to supply domestic fabric and garment production.
Healthcare & Medical: Owing to its hypoallergenic properties and high absorbency, cotton is used to produce medical bandages, gauze, and sanitary cotton. Medical products made from cotton require high sanitary standards, and their import must be supervised by health authorities.
Chemical & Pharmaceutical: Raw cotton and its derivatives are used to produce chemicals and pharmaceutical products. Some chemicals and medicines are derived from cotton by-products, and importing them requires special permits from relevant authorities.
Food Industry: Cottonseed oil is a commonly used edible oil in some countries. Import and export of these products require specific food safety and sanitary standards.
Papermaking: Due to strong, high-quality fibers, cotton is used to produce specialty papers often applied in industries like printing and official documents.
2) Key Steps & Considerations for Clearing Cotton from Customs
1. Tariff (HS Code)
Tariff (HS Code): The HS Code for raw cotton is typically 52010000. This may vary by cotton type (e.g., raw, processed, or derivatives). Knowing the precise tariff code for each imported cotton type matters greatly because it directly affects customs duties and taxes.
2. Permits & Standards
Obtaining sanitary and standards permits: Importing cotton into Iran requires various permits from authorities such as the National Standards Organization and the Ministry of Health. In some cases especially when cotton comes from specific countries phytosanitary and quarantine permits may also be required.
3. Certificates of Origin, Health & Quarantine
Certificate of Origin (COO): A key document confirming the exporting country. It is used to determine customs tariffs and to check product quality and authenticity.
Health and quarantine certificates: As an agricultural product, cotton may carry plant pests and diseases. Therefore, presenting sanitary and quarantine certificates for cotton imports into Iran is mandatory. These documents confirm the product is clean and safe from a sanitary standpoint.
4. Quality Control, Order Registration & Duty Payment
Quality control & standards: Imported products are inspected by customs and relevant bodies to ensure compliance with domestic and international standards. This is especially critical for raw cotton as a base material for key industries.
Order registration & paying duties: Clearing cotton requires registering the order in relevant systems, filing a customs declaration, and paying customs duties and taxes. In some cases, foreign currency payments are made via the banking system.
3) Types of Cotton, Uses & Customs Tariff Codes
Cotton is among the most important agricultural products due to its wide industrial applications. Each type based on processing and end use has its own tariff code. Below are types of cotton, their uses, and related HS Codes.
| Cotton Type | Use (your text kept) | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| 1) Raw cotton | Directly harvested; no special processing yet. It’s the main feedstock for yarn and fabric and is widely used in textiles. Also used for sanitary products such as bandages and medical cotton. | 52010000 |
| 2) Combed cotton | Impurities and short fibers are removed, leaving longer, stronger fibers. Used for premium yarns and soft, high-quality fabrics often for top-grade apparel and costly fabrics. | 52030000 |
| 3) Carded cotton | Processed via carding and ready for spinning. Used for regular yarns and more affordable fabrics in general apparel and other consumer textiles. | 52020000 |
| 4) Cottonseed | Seeds obtained after fiber separation; used to extract cottonseed oil in the food industry. The resulting meal is used as animal feed. | 12072000 |
| 5) Recycled cotton fibers | Produced from old goods or cotton waste; used for recycled fabrics, industrial insulation, and sanitary goods. Cotton recycling helps reduce natural resource consumption. | 63101000 |
| 6) Absorbent/medical cotton | Known as absorbent or medical cotton; used in healthcare to produce items like sanitary pads, gauze, and medical bandages. Highly popular for its absorbency and softness. | 56012100 |
| 7) Hydrophilic cotton | Specially processed for very high water absorption; used for medical bandages, sterile gauze, and other sanitary products. | 56012110 |
| 8) Super-fine cotton | Very long, extra-fine fibers for delicate, high-quality fabrics; used in luxury apparel, premium bedding, and other top-tier textiles. | 52052100 |
| 9) Ginned (lint) cotton | After harvest, fibers are separated from seeds and prepared for spinning. A primary processing step widely used for yarn and basic fabrics. | 52010000 |
Final classification depends on presentation form, processing, purity, end use, and sanitary/quarantine requirements.
Need precise HS Code classification, health/quarantine permits, and document preparation? Our team handles your case end-to-end.
Request a Proforma4) Special Conditions for Cotton Import & Export
As a strategic and vital commodity especially for the textile industry cotton holds a special place in global markets. Cotton imports into Iran are crucial due to the strong demand of textile and apparel production; consequently, Iran imports high volumes annually from multiple countries. Cotton exports although limited also take place from Iran to neighboring markets. This section reviews special import/export conditions, import/export volumes, and global market details.
Cotton Imports into Iran
Iran is a major cotton consumer in the region and meets a significant portion of its needs via imports primarily to satisfy high demand from textiles and apparel. As the essential feedstock for fabrics and yarns, adequate supply is critical; otherwise, production is disrupted.
Countries exporting cotton to Iran: India, Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Egypt are among Iran’s largest suppliers. Each has specific advantages for example, India is a key partner thanks to high quality and competitive prices, while Uzbekistan’s geographic proximity and lower freight costs make it another major source.
Import volumes: Annual cotton imports into Iran reach several million tons. Based on recent figures, Iran imports over 300,000 tons of raw cotton each year to satisfy domestic industry needs. Given growing demand for raw materials in textiles, import volumes continue to trend upward.
Consuming industries: The main users of imported cotton in Iran are textile and apparel manufacturers that require high-quality cotton to produce fabrics, yarns, and garments.
Cotton Exports from Iran
Although Iran’s domestic cotton production is limited compared with major producer countries, in some years surplus production is exported to neighboring countries. With improved cultivation and processing, Iran has increased exports to regional markets.
Countries importing cotton from Iran: Iraq and Afghanistan are notable buyers. Geographic proximity and lower freight costs make them Iran’s main partners for cotton exports.
Export volumes: Iran’s cotton exports have risen in recent years, though volumes remain smaller than imports. On average, Iran exports around 20,000 tons annually to neighboring markets. With better infrastructure and increased domestic production, this figure is expected to rise.
5) Global Flows & International Cotton Market
Global cotton flows are substantial due to its broad industrial applications. International statistics indicate that more than 25,000,000 tons of cotton are produced annually worldwide, and a major share raw or processed enters global supply chains. Exporting and importing countries are engaged in extensive trade interactions.
Top global exporters: India, the United States, Brazil, China, and Uzbekistan. India being the largest producer and exporter plays a critical role in supplying global markets. The United States is another key player, exporting a major portion of its output to Asian and European countries.
Top global importers: China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Turkey, and Pakistan. With strong textile sectors and high raw-material demand, these countries consistently import large volumes. China the largest cotton importer brings in millions of tons annually to satisfy domestic demand.
Top global exporters: India, the United States, Brazil, China, and Uzbekistan. India being the largest producer and exporter plays a critical role in supplying global markets. The United States is another key player, exporting a major portion of its output to Asian and European countries.
Top global importers: China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Turkey, and Pakistan. With strong textile sectors and high raw-material demand, these countries consistently import large volumes. China the largest cotton importer brings in millions of tons annually to satisfy domestic demand.
6) Required Documents for Clearing Cotton from Customs
Given sanitary/agricultural sensitivities and the product’s industrial importance, clearing cotton requires observing regulations and presenting specific documents. Attention to detail and complete, accurate paperwork are essential.
1. Order Registration
The first step is registering the order in the National Trade System. This is the initial authorization an importer needs to begin. Details such as cotton type, country of origin, quantity, and value are recorded.
The first step is registering the order in the National Trade System. This is the initial authorization an importer needs to begin. Details such as cotton type, country of origin, quantity, and value are recorded.
2. Certificate of Origin (COO)
Indicates the exporting country; issued by the Chamber of Commerce or a similar body in the origin country. It’s key for tariff determination.
Indicates the exporting country; issued by the Chamber of Commerce or a similar body in the origin country. It’s key for tariff determination.
3. Commercial Invoice
A primary document including unit price, quantity, payment terms, and product specs. Customs officers use it to calculate customs value.
A primary document including unit price, quantity, payment terms, and product specs. Customs officers use it to calculate customs value.
4. Packing List
Shows complete packing details: number of packages, net/gross weight, and packing type helping customs to control and match goods with other documents.
Shows complete packing details: number of packages, net/gross weight, and packing type helping customs to control and match goods with other documents.
5. Bill of Lading (B/L)
Issued by the carrier; indicates title to the goods and shipment specs. It includes the buyer/seller names, package counts, and final destination mandatory for clearance.
Issued by the carrier; indicates title to the goods and shipment specs. It includes the buyer/seller names, package counts, and final destination mandatory for clearance.
6. Phytosanitary Certificate
Issued by plant-health authorities in the origin country, confirming the shipment is free of plant pests/diseases. Mandatory to prevent pest transmission.
Issued by plant-health authorities in the origin country, confirming the shipment is free of plant pests/diseases. Mandatory to prevent pest transmission.
7. Certificate of Standards
Required for imports into Iran; confirms compliance with quality/safety standards issued by the National Standards Organization or similar bodies.
Required for imports into Iran; confirms compliance with quality/safety standards issued by the National Standards Organization or similar bodies.
8. Quarantine License
If importing from high-risk countries, a quarantine license is mandatory confirming inspections were performed and the shipment is plant-health safe.
If importing from high-risk countries, a quarantine license is mandatory confirming inspections were performed and the shipment is plant-health safe.
9. Customs Declaration
One of the most important documents includes full details such as type, quantity, value, HS Code, and destination. Filed by the importer or customs broker.
One of the most important documents includes full details such as type, quantity, value, HS Code, and destination. Filed by the importer or customs broker.
10. FX Authorization from the Central Bank
If government-allocated foreign currency is required, the importer must obtain the Central Bank’s allocation approval confirming FX provision for the import.
If government-allocated foreign currency is required, the importer must obtain the Central Bank’s allocation approval confirming FX provision for the import.
11. Insurance Certificate
Covers transport risks showing the shipment is insured so that any loss/damage during transit is compensated.
Covers transport risks showing the shipment is insured so that any loss/damage during transit is compensated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the HS Codes for raw and processed cotton?
Raw cotton 52010000, carded cotton 52020000, combed cotton 52030000, cottonseed 12072000, recycled fibers 63101000, medical cotton 56012100, and hydrophilic cotton 56012110 are common.
Which permits are required to import cotton?
As applicable: permits from the National Standards Organization and Ministry of Health, phytosanitary/quarantine certificates, and quality inspection documents. Accurate specifications must be entered during order registration.
What are the principles of safe transport and storage?
Use pallets and dry wrapping, control humidity, ensure proper ventilation, and keep away from ignition sources/contaminants. For raw cotton, follow quarantine requirements and border inspections.
How long does cotton clearance usually take?
It depends on document completeness, health/quarantine permits, and customs workload. With a complete file and coordination with an expert broker, the process speeds up noticeably.
Multimedia Suggestions
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cotton-customs-clearance-iran-hs-52010000.jpg - Alt Text: Customs clearance of all types of cotton in Iran | HS 52010000 & health/quarantine permits
- Caption: “HS checklist, phytosanitary requirements, and cotton clearance documents”
- Infographic: “Cotton clearance roadmap: Order Registration → Certificates → Assessment → Duties”
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Summary & Call to Action
Cotton clearance given sanitary/quarantine requirements, HS diversity, and quality sensitivity demands field experience and operational agility. Saba Tarkhis, with mastery of customs procedures and health documentation, drives your case forward quickly, accurately, and in full compliance.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSaba Brokerage’s Specialized Services for Cotton Clearance
To speed up and simplify cotton clearance, using professional services from reputable brokers is the best approach. A leading company in this field offers specialized services to cotton importers/exporters as follows:
Specialized consulting: A team of experienced experts in customs regulations and cotton-related tariffs provides comprehensive, professional guidance, supporting clients through every step.
Obtaining required permits: The company handles all sanitary, standards, and quarantine permits on behalf of clients accelerating import and clearance with precision.
Customs procedures: Order registration, customs declarations, duty payments, and all follow-ups are performed completely and accurately by the specialist team.
Faster clearance: With in-depth knowledge of customs rules, the company minimizes clearance time and prevents potential delays.
Financial & banking support: The company also assists with FX payments and banking processes for cotton imports helping clients avoid financial pitfalls.
Customs clearance of cotton requires high expertise and awareness of regulations. Using professional services improves the process, prevents issues, and boosts both speed and accuracy.
