Cotton denim from India
India exported $291 million of cotton denim (HS 5209.42) in FY2025-26, up 16% on FY2024-25. Goods made in India pay 18.4% US import duty, against 45.9% for goods from China.
- US duty from India
- 18.4%China 45.9%
- India's exports, FY2025-26
- $291MUp 15.9% on last year
- HS code
- 5209.42Page updated 6 Nov 2026
US import duty, India vs China
India pays 27.5 points less on the lowest-duty line. From the USITC HTS 2026 Rev 22.
The US tariff line
| HTS line | Description | Base | India | China |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5209.42.00 | Of yarns of different colors: Denim | 8.4% | 18.4% | 45.9% |
Totals include the Section 301 duty on goods from India or China and any Section 232 metals duty. They exclude anti-dumping and countervailing duties and customs fees. Check the current rate before you quote.
India's exports of cotton denim
India's exports to all countries under HS 5209.42, April to March, from DGCI&S.
Rules and other duties
- EU base duty
- The EU's average applied base (MFN) rate on HS 5209.42 is 8%, from 2021 data. It doesn't include India's GSP preference, so goods from India may pay less. Check the current rate in TARIC before you quote.
- RoDTEP
- India's schedule lists 3.6% of FOB value for exporters. The scheme was notified until 30 September 2026, so check with DGFT whether it's been extended.
- India's export policy
- Free to export, with no licence needed.
Common questions
What is the US import duty on cotton denim from India?
18.4% on the US tariff line for this code, including the Section 301 duty on Indian goods and any Section 232 metals duty. Goods from China pay 45.9%. Anti-dumping duties and customs fees aren't included.
What is the HS code for cotton denim?
5209.42, under heading 5209 (Woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85 percent or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200 g/m²). Check the exact 8-digit or 10-digit line with your customs broker, since duty can differ between lines.
Does India export cotton denim?
Yes. India exported $291 million under HS 5209.42 in FY2025-26, according to DGCI&S, the Ministry of Commerce's trade statistics body.