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May 22, 2026

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HSN code 5102 explained: GST rate on fine & coarse animal hair

Navigating the complex tax structures in the textile sector requires an accurate knowledge of product classification codes. For businesses dealing in raw agricultural and textile materials, understanding the fine & coarse animal hair GST rates and HSN code 5102 is very important. This category mainly covers uncarded and uncombed raw hair sourced from different animals, which are later used in textile manufacturing and luxury garment production.

Correct GST classification helps businesses maintain proper compliance, avoid penalties, and manage supply chain costs more efficiently. This guide explains the definition, GST rates, compliance requirements, and important legal details related to HSN code 5102.

What is the HSN code for 5102?

The harmonised system of nomenclature creates standardised classification codes for goods used in domestic and international trade. Under India’s GST framework, wool and animal hair products fall under chapter 51.

HSN code 5102 specifically applies to uncarded and uncombed animal hair. Businesses dealing in such products must use the correct HSN classification while preparing invoices, GST returns, and transport documents.

This category is mainly divided into two major groups:

Fine animal hair
coarse animal hair

The distinction depends on the texture, softness, and intended use of the fibres.

Definition of fine animal hair

Fine animal hair is considered highly valuable in the luxury textile industry because of its softness and thermal insulation properties. These fibres are commonly used in premium garments, shawls, winter wear, and high-end knitwear products.

Animals included under this category generally include:

Alpaca
Llama
Vicuna
Camel
Yak
Angora rabbit
Kashmiri goats

Since these fibres are commercially valuable, their classification and taxation are carefully monitored by tax authorities.

Definition of coarse animal hair

Coarse animal hair consists of thicker and rougher fibres compared to fine animal hair. This category mainly includes fibres that are not classified as fine hair or sheep wool.

Examples generally include:

Horsehair
Industrial bristles
Rough animal fibres

These materials are mostly used for industrial purposes, such as:

Manufacturing heavy-duty brushes
Upholstery stuffing
Industrial textiles
Protective materials

Even though their commercial applications differ significantly from fine hair, both categories still fall under HSN code 5102 when they remain uncarded and uncombed.

Detailed GST rates for HSN code 5102

Currently, raw, uncarded and uncombed animal hair under HSN code 5102 falls under a highly favourable GST structure.

The applicable GST rates are:

CGST rate: 0%
SGST rate: 0%
IGST rate: 0%
Total GST rate: 0%

This zero-per-cent tax structure applies to:

Fine animal hair not carded or combed
Coarse animal hair not carded or combed
Cashmere goat hair
Industrial bristles and horsehair in raw form

This exemption helps reduce the tax burden on agricultural suppliers and textile manufacturers.

Impact of HSN code 5102 on the textile and agriculture sectors

The zero GST rate on raw animal hair directly benefits farmers, textile mills, and manufacturing businesses. Since these raw materials remain tax exempt, domestic textile production costs become lower.

This policy also supports:

Agricultural producers
Rural wool industries
Traditional textile sectors
Export-oriented garment manufacturers

Keeping raw fibres tax-free will help improve affordability and strengthen India’s textile supply chain.

Compliance guidelines for businesses

Even though the GST rate is currently zero per cent, businesses must still follow proper compliance procedures under the GST law.

Accurate invoicing

For exempt goods, businesses should issue a bill of supply instead of a standard tax invoice.

E-way bill requirements

If the value of transported goods exceeds ₹50,000, generating an e-way bill may still be mandatory during transportation.

Monthly GST reporting

Exempt supplies must still be properly disclosed in monthly GST filings, such as:

GSTR-1
GSTR-3b

Record maintenance

Businesses should maintain:

Purchase records
Supplier invoices
Transport receipts
Banking records
Delivery documents

Proper documentation helps during audits and departmental verification.

Difference between carding and combing hair

Understanding carding and combing is extremely important because GST applicability changes after processing.

What is carding?

Carding is a mechanical process that disentangles, cleans, and mixes raw fibres.

What is combing?

Combing is a refining process that removes short fibres and aligns long fibres parallelly.

Once animal hair undergoes carding or combing, the product generally shifts from HSN code 5102 to HSN code 5105.

Products classified under HSN code 5105 usually attract a 5% GST rate, which directly affects pricing and profit margins.

Therefore, businesses must maintain accurate technical specifications and supplier documentation for proper classification.

Importance of correct HSN classification

Using the wrong HSN code can create several compliance issues, including:

GST notices
Tax disputes
Penalties
Blocked input tax credit
Audit complications

Correct classification ensures smooth business operations and proper tax reporting.

Businesses dealing in textile raw materials should regularly review GST notifications and consult professionals whenever classification confusion arises.

Conclusion

Understanding GST rates and HSN code 5102 is essential for businesses dealing in raw animal fibres. Currently, uncarded and uncombed fine as well as coarse animal hair enjoy a zero-per cent GST rate under India’s GST system.

This exemption supports textile manufacturing, agriculture, and export industries while reducing the financial burden on businesses. However, companies must still maintain proper documentation, invoicing, and GST reporting practices to remain fully compliant with tax regulations.