Belgium Textiles Tariff Rates
Textiles import and customs duty guide - last updated 2026-09-29
Average Tariff
Category average rate
Maximum Tariff
Category maximum rate
Minimum Tariff
Category minimum rate
HS Coverage
Relevant HS chapters
Belgium Textiles - Overview
Textiles and apparel are a classic labour-intensive sector with some of the highest applied tariffs, especially on finished clothing. Rules of origin and quota arrangements matter a great deal for this category.
For reference only: the average, maximum and minimum rates below are taken from Belgium's published tariff schedule. Actual duty depends on the exact HS subheading and on whether preferential (FTA) rates apply.
Representative HS Codes
| HS Code | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 5201 | Cotton, not carded or combed |
| 6109 | T-shirts, knitted or crocheted |
| 6203 | Men's or boys' suits, trousers and jackets |
HS chapters: HS Chapters 50-63 (Silk, Wool, Cotton, Knitted / Woven Apparel).
How Belgium Import Duty on Textiles Is Calculated
Customs duty is normally charged on the customs value of the goods (commonly CIF - cost, insurance and freight). The ad valorem rate for the correct HS subheading is applied to that value. Depending on Belgium, the following may also apply on top of or instead of the base tariff:
- Ad valorem duty - a percentage of customs value (the figures shown above).
- Specific / compound duty - a fixed amount per unit, or a mix, on some lines.
- VAT / GST / excise - consumption taxes charged on the duty-inclusive value at the border.
- Trade-agreement (preferential) rates - lower or zero where the goods meet rules of origin.
- Anti-dumping / safeguard duties - extra duties on specific products found to be dumped or surging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Belgium tariff on textiles and apparel?
Belgium applies an average textile/apparel duty of about 8.8%, a maximum near 12% and a minimum of 0%. Finished clothing is usually taxed above raw fibres.
Which HS codes cover textiles?
Textiles use HS Chapters 50-63: cotton (5201), knitted T-shirts (6109) and woven suits/trousers (6203).
Why are apparel tariffs high?
Apparel is labour-intensive and heavily protected in many markets; finished garments face higher duties than yarns and fabrics, and rules of origin are strictly enforced.
Are trade agreements helpful for textile imports to Belgium?
Only if the exporter and Belgium share a textile-specific FTA with cumulation; otherwise the MFN rate applies. Verify the yarn-forward / origin rules before claiming preference.